travelling to the us with a british passport

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

• Fact Sheets

Frequently Asked Questions: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S.

Updated Date: April 21, 2022

Since January 22, 2022, DHS has required non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States via land ports of entry and ferry terminals at the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination upon request.  On April 21, 2022, DHS announced that it would extend these requirements. In determining whether and when to rescind this order, DHS anticipates that it will take account of whether the vaccination requirement for non-U.S. air travelers remains in place.

These requirements apply to non-U.S. individuals who are traveling for essential or non-essential reasons. They do not apply to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or U.S. nationals.

Effective November 8, 2021, new air travel requirements applied to many noncitizens who are visiting the United States temporarily. These travelers are also required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. All air travelers, including U.S. persons, must test negative for COVID-19 prior to departure. Limited exceptions apply. See  CDC guidance  for more details regarding air travel requirements.

Below is more information about what to know before you go, and answers to Frequently Asked Questions about cross-border travel.

Entering the U.S. Through a Land Port of Entry or Ferry Terminal

Q. what are the requirements for travelers entering the united states through land poes.

A:  Before embarking on a trip to the United States, non-U.S. travelers should be prepared for the following:

• Possess proof of an approved COVID-19 vaccination as outlined on the  CDC  website.
• During border inspection, verbally attest to their COVID-19 vaccination status. 
• Bring a  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative  compliant border crossing document, such as a valid passport (and visa if required), Trusted Traveler Program card, a Department of State-issued Border Crossing Card, Enhanced Driver’s License or Enhanced Tribal Card when entering the country. Travelers (including U.S. citizens) should be prepared to present the WHTI-compliant document and any other documents requested by the CBP officer.

 Q. What are the requirements to enter the United States for children under the age of 18 who can't be vaccinated?

A:  Children under 18 years of age are excepted from the vaccination requirement at land and ferry POEs.

Q: Which vaccines/combination of vaccines will be accepted?

A:  Per CDC guidelines, all Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved and authorized vaccines, as well as all vaccines that have an Emergency Use Listing (EUL) from the World Health Organization (WHO), will be accepted.

Accepted Vaccines:

• More details are available in CDC guidance  here .
• 2 weeks (14 days) after your dose of an accepted single-dose COVID-19 vaccine;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after your second dose of an accepted 2-dose series;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after you received the full series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine (not placebo) in a clinical trial;
• 2 weeks (14 days) after you received 2 doses of any “mix-and-match” combination of accepted COVID-19 vaccines administered at least 17 days apart.

Q. Is the United States requiring travelers to have a booster dose to be considered fully vaccinated for border entry purposes?

A:  No. The CDC guidance for “full vaccination” can be found here.

Q: Do U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land POEs and ferry terminals?

A:  No. Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs). Travelers that exhibit signs or symptoms of illness will be referred to CDC for additional medical evaluation.

Q: Is pre- or at-arrival COVID testing required to enter the United States via land POEs or ferry terminals?

A: No, there is no COVID testing requirement to enter the United States via land POE or ferry terminals. In this respect, the requirement for entering by a land POE or ferry terminal differs from arrival via air, where there is a requirement to have a negative test result before departure.

Processing Changes Announced on January 22, 2022 

Q: new changes were recently announced. what changed on january 22.

A:  Since January 22, 2022, non-citizens who are not U.S. nationals or Lawful Permanent Residents have been required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the United States at land ports of entry and ferry terminals, whether for essential or nonessential purposes. Previously, DHS required that non-U.S. persons be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the United States for nonessential purposes.  Effective January 22, all non-U.S. individuals, to include essential travelers, must be prepared to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request. DHS announced an extension of this policy on April 21, 2022.

Q: Who is affected by the changes announced on January 22?

A: This requirement does not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. It applies to other noncitizens, such as a citizen of Mexico, Canada, or any other country seeking to enter the United States through a land port of entry or ferry terminal.

Q: Do U.S. citizens need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land port of entry or ferry terminals?

A: Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. Citizens, U.S. nationals or U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. Travelers that exhibit signs or symptoms of illness will be referred to CDC for additional medical evaluation. 

Q: What is essential travel?

A:  Under the prior policy, there was an exception from temporary travel restrictions for “essential travel.” Essential travel included travel to attend educational institutions, travel to work in the United States, travel for emergency response and public health purposes, and travel for lawful cross-border trade (e.g., commercial truckers). Under current policy, there is no exception for essential travel.

Q: Will there be any exemptions? 

A: While most non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States will need to be vaccinated, there is a narrow list of exemptions consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Order in the air travel context.

• Certain categories of individuals on diplomatic or official foreign government travel as specified in the CDC Order
• Children under 18 years of age;
• Certain participants in certain COVID-19 vaccine trials as specified in the CDC Order;   
• Individuals with medical contraindications to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine as specified in the CDC Order;
• Individuals issued a humanitarian or emergency exception by the Secretary of Homeland Security;
• Individuals with valid nonimmigrant visas (excluding B-1 [business] or B-2 [tourism] visas) who are citizens of a country with limited COVID-19 vaccine availability, as specified in the CDC Order
• Members of the U.S. Armed Forces or their spouses or children (under 18 years of age) as specified in the CDC Order; and
• Individuals whose entry would be in the U.S. national interest, as determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security.

Q: What documentation will be required to show vaccination status?

A:  Non-U.S. individuals are required to be prepared to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request regardless of the purpose of travel.

The current documentation requirement remains the same and is available on the CDC website . Documentation requirements for entry at land ports of entry and ferry terminals mirror those for entry by air.

Q: What happens if someone doesn’t have proof of vaccine status?

A: If non-U.S. individuals cannot present proof of vaccination upon request, they will not be admitted into the United States and will either be subject to removal or be allowed to withdraw their application for entry.

Q: Will incoming travelers be required to present COVID-19 test results?

A: There is no COVID-19 testing requirement for travelers at land border ports of entry, including ferry terminals.

Q: What does this mean for those who can't be vaccinated, either due to age or other health considerations? 

A: See CDC guidance for additional information on this topic. Note that the vaccine requirement does not apply to children under 18 years of age.

Q: Does this requirement apply to amateur and professional athletes?

A: Yes, unless they qualify for one of the narrow CDC exemptions.

Q: Are commercial truckers required to be vaccinated?

A: Yes, unless they qualify for one of the narrow CDC exemptions. These requirements also apply to bus drivers as well as rail and ferry operators.

Q. Do you expect border wait times to increase?

A:  As travelers navigate these new travel requirements, wait times may increase. Travelers should account for the possibility of longer than normal wait times and lines at U.S. land border crossings when planning their trip and are kindly encouraged to exercise patience.

To help reduce wait times and long lines, travelers can take advantage of innovative technology, such as facial biometrics and the CBP OneTM mobile application, which serves as a single portal for individuals to access CBP mobile applications and services.

Q: How is Customs and Border Protection staffing the ports of entry? 

A: CBP’s current staffing levels at ports of entry throughout the United States are commensurate with pre-pandemic levels. CBP has continued to hire and train new employees throughout the pandemic. CBP expects some travelers to be non-compliant with the proof of vaccination requirements, which may at times lead to an increase in border wait times. Although trade and travel facilitation remain a priority, we cannot compromise national security, which is our primary mission. CBP Office of Field Operations will continue to dedicate its finite resources to the processing of arriving traffic with emphasis on trade facilitation to ensure economic recovery.

Q: What happens if a vaccinated individual is traveling with an unvaccinated individual?  

A:  The unvaccinated individual (if 18 or over) would not be eligible for admission.

Q: If I am traveling for an essential reason but am not vaccinated can I still enter?

A:  No, if you are a non-U.S. individual. The policy announced on January 22, 2022 applies to both essential and non-essential travel by non-U.S. individual travelers. Since January 22, DHS has required that all inbound non-U.S. individuals crossing U.S. land or ferry POEs – whether for essential or non-essential reasons – be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide related proof of vaccination upon request.

Q: Are sea crew members on vessels required to have a COVID vaccine to disembark?

A:  Sea crew members traveling pursuant to a C-1 or D nonimmigrant visa are not excepted from COVID-19 vaccine requirements at the land border. This is a difference from the international air transportation context.

Entering the U.S. via Air Travel

Q: what are the covid vaccination requirements for air passengers to the united states  .

A:  According to CDC requirements [www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/noncitizens-US-air-travel.html | Link no longer valid], most noncitizens who are visiting the United States temporarily must be fully vaccinated prior to boarding a flight to the United States. These travelers are required to show proof of vaccination. A list of covered individuals is available on the CDC website.  

Q: What are the COVID testing requirements for air passengers to the United States?  

A:  Effective Sunday, June 12 at 12:01 a.m. ET, CDC will no longer require pre-departure COVID-19 testing for U.S.-bound air travelers.

• Border Security
• Transportation Security
• Airport Security
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
• Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

• For International Visitors

Know Before You Visit

Almost a million individuals enter the U.S. daily. Everyone arriving at a port of entry to the U.S. is subject to inspection by Customs and Border Protection officers for compliance with immigration, customs and agriculture regulations. The more international travelers know about what to expect, the easier and quicker the process becomes.  

Related Travel Resources

• Money and Other Monetary Instruments  
• Prohibited and Restricted Items

Skip to main content

By using ba.com you agree to the use of cookies .

Log in or Sign up for the Executive Club

Use this form to log in to your account or to create an account for the British Airways executive club

Your account

Book flights quicker, pay with avios and earn rewards as an executive club member., passports, visas and api.

Skip to Navigation

If you're looking to make a smooth start to your journey, you need to make sure you have the right documents, such as a valid passport and the relevant visas.

To help, we've summarised some of the key considerations and requirements here - but it's not a full list of all possible requirements around the world. It's your responsibility to ensure you have the right documents to be allowed to travel.

Passports and ID cards

To travel on an international flight your passport must:

• Have been issued less than 10 years before the date you enter a country . Check the Date of Issue on your passport.
• Be valid for the required time after your planned return date . This is often at least three or six months after the day you plan to leave your destination. Check the Expiry Date on your passport.
• Meet the specific passport validity requirements for your destination . Check the  IATA Travel Centre  for more information.
• Be signed by its owner . Please ensure each passport is signed with the owner's signature. You may be denied entry or fined in some countries for travelling with an unsigned passport. More information is available for UK passport holders at  HM Passport Office .

Children's passports

Children need their own passports to travel internationally, including infants under two. Infant and children's passports are only valid for five years, so please check the expiry date before departure.

EU, EEA or Swiss national ID cards

These are are no longer accepted as valid documentation for entering the UK, unless you’re exempt. Please check the latest  UK Government advice  for more details.

Please note, it’s your responsibility to ensure you have valid documentation when you travel.  If you fail to comply with these requirements, you may not be allowed to travel, or you may be refused entry at your destination and have to pay associated costs.

You do not require a passport to travel within the UK, but you will need to carry one type of photographic ID when travelling with us. Examples include:

• Valid passport
• Valid driving licence, either provisional or full
• Valid EU national identity card
• Valid armed forces identity card
• Valid police warrant card or badge

If you are a citizen of the UK, Republic of Ireland, Channel Islands or Isle of Man and were born in these areas, you do not need a passport to travel between these destinations, but you do require some form of photographic identification, such as a driving licence.

All other travellers require a valid passport to travel between these destinations.

Processing times for passports vary but it may take six weeks or longer to receive a passport after applying, so we advise that you wait until your passport has arrived before making a booking. Many countries offer fast-track applications where required.

If you need a passport or need to renew an existing one you can apply directly to your nation’s passport office. In the UK, that’s the UK passport service .

If you’d like help with your application, British Airways has partnered with VisaCentral, a company that will do all of the hard work for you. VisaCentral can help with passport renewals and replacements, name changes, second passports and new passports for children. Plus, as a British Airways customer you’ll get a 30% discount on the service fees.

Get a passport through VisaCentral

If there is a place on your passport for you to sign, please sign your passport with your signature. Your passport is not valid until it is signed . For British passports, you can learn more from  HM Passport Office .

Visas and other travel documentation

How to check if you need a visa

Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your journey, you may need a visa, or an equivalent form of authorisation, for every country you enter as part of your journey — even if you are only in transit or connecting from one flight to another in the airport of that country without going through border control — known as a transit visa.

This is in addition to a valid passport.

There are several ways you can check if you need a visa:

Check if you need a visa via the IATA Travel Centre  - it's free to check and also includes passport and health requirements, as well as customs, currency and airport information.

If you need a visa, our partner VisaCentral can help  - it's free to check and they’ll tell you exactly what documents you need to get one. Plus, as a British Airways customer, you’ll get a 30% discount on VisaCentral service fees should you need help with an application.

Check if you need a transit visa to connect through the UK  - even if you’re only connecting from one flight to another, you may need a transit visa, such as a Direct Airside Transit (DATV) visa or a Visitor in Transit visa, to connect through the UK.

Check if you need a visa via the Sherpa online search tool below .  Sherpa can also help obtain many e-visas, and advise of other possible information you may need for your travels.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

An ETA will soon be required for people travelling to the UK who do not need a visa, including children and babies. It will be electronically linked to your passport and will give you permission:

• To visit the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business or to study.
• To visit the UK for up to 3 months on the Creative Worker visa concession .
• To transit through the UK – including if you’re not going through the UK border control.

An ETA will be required from 15 November 2023 when travelling from certain countries, with more being added to the scheme over time. Please check if you require an ETA .

Read further information and apply for an ETA  or watch more about ETA .

The information provided on this page is for information purposes only and could be subject to change at very short notice. It is your responsibility to check and observe all the health and entry requirements applicable to your journey and you should always check the latest travel guidance from your government before you travel and the guidance provided by the relevant public authorities of your destination. Failure to meet applicable requirements means that British Airways will not be able to carry you, and compensation and care and assistance provisions will not apply. Please note that Sherpa is a third party service provider that may apply fees for such services.

Entry requirements and other travel documents

If you're a citizen of a country covered by the Visa Waiver Programme (such as the UK) you are able to travel to the USA with an Electronic System Travel Authorisation (ESTA) instead of a visa.

Make sure you apply for your ESTA at least 72 hours before your departure .You may not be allowed to travel if you arrive at the airport without an ESTA.

You will need a valid e-Passport to use ESTA. These have a microchip symbol on their front cover. ESTAs are valid for multiple journeys for up to two years or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner.

Apply for an ESTA

More about the Visa Waiver Program and ESTAs

When you need a visa

You will need to apply for a visa to travel to the United States and should contact your local US Embassy in the following circumstances:

• If you are a citizen of a country not covered by the Visa Waiver Programme.
• If you have dual nationality with one passport being issued by a country eligible under the Visa Waiver Programme and the other issued by Iran, Iraq, Sudan or Syria.
• If you have an ESTA and have visited Iran, Iraq, Sudan or Syria since 1 March 2011.

Help with your ESTA application

Our partner VisaCentral can take the hard work out of applying, and offers a safe, secure and easy way to obtain your ESTA. Benefits of using its service include:

• Specialist support – access to a visa specialist via phone or email if you have questions regarding your application.
• Automated monitoring - applications not instantly approved automatically get resubmitted or assigned to a visa specialist for review; there’s no need to re-apply.
• Discounted rate – get a 30% discount on VisaCentral's handling fees as a British Airways customer.

Get an ESTA through VisaCentral

Many visitors need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization to travel to Canada. You can check Canada’s entry requirements before flying.

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can quickly, securely and easily obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization for you.

Get an eTA through VisaCentral

If you're travelling to China, you'll need to check what type of visa you require. Transit visas are available if you are staying for less than 144 hours.

If you have a British passport, the GOV.UK website shows what types of are available when travelling to or through China.

Find out more about visa requirements for China  (British passport holders only)

If you have a passport from any other country, please ensure you check with your nearest Chinese Embassy .

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can quickly, securely and easily obtain a Visa for you.

Get a visa through VisaCentral

If you are travelling to India, you may be able to obtain an eTourist Visa online, just four days before you travel. The visa will be valid for 60 days and you will need to present a printed copy when you check in to be able to travel.

Find out more and apply for India e-Tourist Visa

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can quickly, securely and easily obtain an eTourist Visa for you.

While we make every effort to keep this information up to date, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) visa restrictions can change at short notice. Please  check the IATA Travel Centre  before you book.

If you are a pilgrim

If you are a Hajj or Umrah pilgrim, you must enter KSA through Jeddah with a valid Hajj or Umrah visa. Travel must be between the official pilgrimage travel dates.

You cannot:

• travel for Hajj using an Umrah visa
• travel for Umrah using a Hajj visa
• enter, transfer or transit through Riyadh
• travel outside of the official pilgrimage dates determined by the Saudi authorities each year

If you are travelling from the UK, we recommend to book through our specialist partner Masterfare who can arrange your flight and Hajj/Umrah visa through a KSA Ministry of Hajj approved agent.

If you are travelling from another country, or you book on ba.com, it is your responsibility to ensure you get the correct pilgrimage visa from a KSA Ministry of Hajj-approved Hajj or Umrah agent.

If you do not have the correct documentation, or have booked to travel outside the official pilgrimage dates, you will not be allowed to travel or be able to get a refund.

Non-pilgrim visitors

If you are not Muslim, you can enter Jeddah or Riyadh at any time using a business or visit visa.

If you are Muslim, are using a business or visit visa during Hajj, or are travelling in the 6-week period up to and including Hajj, you must enter KSA through Riyadh.

If you are Muslim with a business or visit visa, you will need a Hajj visa to travel during the official pilgramage travel dates.

These restrictions do not apply to residents or citizens of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

KSA visa restrictions change at short notice. Please check the IATA Travel Centre before you book.

Some countries' immigration departments require additional documentation for all children under 18 years travelling into, out of or transiting their country. This varies depending on the country so please check before you travel on the IATA Travel Centre. Just make sure you use the date of birth of your child to receive the correct information.

South Africa requirements

If you need a visa for your journey, you can apply directly with the embassy or high commission of the country you want to travel to — visit their website or local consulate to learn more about the process.

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can do all of the hard work for you:

• it's a safe, secure and easy way to obtain your visa
• it can help save time — VisaCentral will stand in line at the embassy or consulate on your behalf
• you'll get a 30% discount on handling fees as a British Airways customer

Advance Passenger Information (API)

Many countries require us to collect some passport and travel information about who's flying into their country. The information you provide is sent securely to the necessary government authorities.

You will need to supply some or all of the following details:

• your full name (as it appears on your passport)
• your date of birth
• your gender
• your nationality
• your passport number
• your passport expiry date
• the country that issued your passport
• your country of residence.

Additionally, when travelling to the US, you will need to provide:

• the destination address of your first night’s stay
• Alien Registration Number (Green Card) for those who have US residency
• Traveler Redress Number   if you have one (this enables travellers who have experienced problems entering the US to avoid future difficulties).

If you're a US citizen and have a 'Global Entry' number, you don't need to provide this as part of your API. When you arrive in the US your Global Entry status will be recognised when you use the dedicated Immigration kiosk.

Some governments require us to provide them with information from flight bookings, which will contain additional passenger details to those listed above.

You can add Advance Passenger Information to your booking on ba.com using   Manage My Booking . If there is any information you need to provide, you'll see a red exclamation mark against the passenger information section at the top of the page.

Add Advance Passenger Information

Legal statement for US flights

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the US Department of Homeland Security requires us to collect information from you for purposes of watch list screening, under the authority of 49 U.S.C. section 114, and the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. Providing this information is voluntary; however, if you don't provide it, you may be subject to additional screening or denied transport or authorisation to enter the post-security area. TSA may share information you provide with law enforcement or intelligence agencies or others under its published system of records notice. For more on TSA Privacy policies, or to view the system of records notice and the privacy impact assessment, visit   tsa.gov .

Travel schemes

If you are a national of one of the below countries you can join the 'Registered Traveller' scheme and enjoy faster entry to the UK, as long as you have a biometric passport.

When you apply, the UK Border Force carries out checks to see if you are eligible to join. If accepted, you won't need to fill out a landing card for the UK. You'll be able to enter the UK at the ePassport gates or the UK/EU lanes at several UK airports, including all London airports, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Manchester.

Find out more or apply for the Registered Traveller scheme

UK citizens can get through US passport control faster by joining Global Entry, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) programme. The scheme allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travellers arriving in the United States. Benefits include:

• no processing queues
• no requirement to complete a paper customs declaration form
• reduced waiting times
• TSA Pre✓® Eligibility (faster, more efficient security screening at participating US airports).

Membership lasts for five years and the application process includes background checks (at a non-refundable cost of £42 payable to the UK government), online enrolment with the US Customs and Border Protection Agency (at a non-refundable cost of USD100) and attendance at a face to face interview at an official enrolment centre.

More about Global Entry and FAQs

Apply for Global Entry

We participate in the TSA Pre✓ ® programme for customers with a Known Traveller Number (KTN) departing from US airports. TSA Pre✓ ® is a faster, easier security screening process at US airports. Once enrolled, you will be able to speed through security without removing shoes, laptops, liquids, belts and light jackets.

Who is eligible?

• Members of the Global Entry scheme.
• US citizens and US lawful permanent residents enrolled in TSA Pre✓ ® , NEXUS or SENTRI. 
• Canadian citizens who are members of NEXUS. 

Enter your Global Entry, TSA Pre✓®, NEXUS or SENTRI membership number (your KTN) into your booking each time you travel to demonstrate your eligibility. You can add your KTN during online check-in via   Manage My Booking   on ba.com, at an airport desk or by   contacting us .

Even if you are eligible for TSA Pre✓ ® as a member of a trusted traveller programme, TSA Pre✓ ® does not guarantee expedited screening.

Find out more and enrol

Find out where TSA Pre✓ ® is available  

Where a TSA Pre✓ ® lane is not available, you can show your TSA Pre✓ ® boarding pass and may receive a form of expedited screening in a standard lane.

You can now submit an electronic arrival card via the Web Service and Mobile App before you arrive in Singapore. You will then be able to head directly to immigration clearance, allowing you to avoid unnecessary delays and save time at the airport.

COVID-19 information

Keeping our customers and colleagues safe at all times is always our number one priority. During the pandemic we introduced new measures including the need to wear face coverings.

Customers are no longer required to wear a mask at airports in England, however, as an international airline flying all around the world, we are obliged to ensure our customers continue to comply with local restrictions and meet the requirements of the destination they arrive at.

Therefore, we ask you to check the requirements of the destination you’re flying to before departing for the airport, because:

• If you are travelling on our flights, you will be required to wear a mask on board if the destination you are flying to or from requires you to.
• If you are travelling on our flights, you will be required to wear a mask to disembark the aircraft, and at your arrival airport, if the destination you are flying to requires it.

Countries requiring masks

You will need to wear a mask if you are travelling to or from the below destinations. Please also be aware that some countries require a specific type of mask, as indicated.

If your destination is not listed below, then you are not required to wear a mask. However, if you still wish to wear a mask you’re able to make a personal choice and we kindly request everyone to respect each other’s preferences.

Please note, if your flight is due to be operated by another airline on behalf of British Airways, you may still be required to wear a mask for your flights regardless of your destination. We advise that you bring your own mask with you if flying with a partner airline to ensure you meet any requirements.

Situation in Haiti March 29, 2024

U.s. citizens in haiti, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

United Kingdom

Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

United kingdom - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the United Kingdom due to terrorism.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in the United Kingdom. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

There is also a risk of isolated violence by dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the United Kingdom.

If you decide to travel to the United Kingdom:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and Twitter.com/Travelgov
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the United Kingdom.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel and return to the United States.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid for the duration of your stay in the United Kingdom   (If you have onward travel to countries outside the United Kingdom, you should check the passport validity requirements for each additional country on their respective information pages.)

Must have at least one page

Not required for stays less than six months.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy london.

33 Nine Elms Lane London, SW11 7US United Kingdom Telephone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000 Fax: +(44) (20) 7891-3845 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Edinburgh, Scotland 3 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5BW Scotland Telephone: 013-1556-8315 / from the United States: 011 (44)(13) 1556-8315 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  020-7499-9000 / from the United States: 011 (44)(20) 7499-9000 Fax: 0131-557-6023 /from the United States: 011 (44) 131-557-6023 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Belfast, Northern Ireland Danesfort House, 223 Stranmillis Road, Belfast BT9 5GR Northern Ireland, United Kingdom Telephone: 028-9038-6100 / from the United States: 011 (44)(28) 9038-6100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 01253-501106 / from the United States: 011 (44) 1253-501106 Fax: 028-9068-1301 / from the United States: 011 (44)(28) 9068-1301 Email: [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

• To enter the United Kingdom, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay.
• Starting June 2019, U.S. passport holders will be able to use the ePassport Gates upon arrival in the United Kingdom. U.S. citizens who had previously registered for the UK’s Registered Traveller Service (RTS) should now also use the ePassport Gates on arrival in the UK.
• If you are planning onward travel after departing the UK, note that many other countries require at least six months’ remaining validity on your passport to enter. If you are bound for Continental Europe, please see our  U.S. travelers in Europe page for additional details.
• Visas for specific categories of visitors must be obtained prior to travel. Visit the  UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website to determine if you need a visa to enter the United Kingdom. We cannot intervene on your behalf when you apply for a UK visa, nor can we advocate for your admission into the UK if you are denied entry.
• Students and prospective students should visit the  UKVI website  to determine if they need a visa.
• For some U.S. travelers, especially students, an entry stamp is required.  Please consult this website  for more information.
• Unpaid and paid workers, interns, volunteers, charity workers, and temporary workers can find information about obtaining a visa on the  UKVI website .
• Visitors traveling to the United Kingdom to get married, even if they do not plan to reside there, must obtain a visa in advance. See the  UKVI website  for visa information.
• Surcharges apply to certain categories of visas, generally those involving work, study, or residency for more than six months. More information is available on the  UKVI website  and in our Health section below.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the United Kingdom.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible near-term attacks in Europe. The UK Security Service publishes specific reasons for any changes in the threat level and recommended actions for the public via its  UK threat levels website .

There is the potential for  isolated violence  related to the political situation in Northern Ireland. The Police Service of Northern Ireland assesses there is a continued threat of violence from dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets, and may involve the use of  firearms  and  explosives . Tensions may be heightened during the summer marching season (April to August), particularly on and around the July 12 public holiday.

Avoid areas of demonstrations  if possible, and be careful within the vicinity of demonstrations. Demonstrations occur frequently in and around city centers and areas where tourists frequent. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate to violence.

The phone number for  police/fire/ambulance emergency services  is  999  in the United Kingdom and  112  in Gibraltar. You should also use these numbers to report security threats or suspicious packages. Also see information for  contacting police from abroad .

• Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
• Be vigilant, as  pickpocketing ,  mugging,  and “snatch and grab” theft of mobile phones, watches and jewelry can occur.
• Do not leave bags unattended in restaurants, pubs, hotel lobbies, and parked cars.
• Be alert to other criminal schemes, such as  impostors  posing as undercover police officers and “fining” tourists for bogus minor offenses. A legitimate Metropolitan Police Services officer will never demand an immediate cash payment.
• Use only licensed Black Cabs or pre-ordered car services (minicabs) . Unlicensed taxis or private cars posing as taxis may offer low fares, but in some instances, travelers have been  robbed  or  sexually assaulted  while using these cars. See Transport for London for additional information on cabs and car services .
• Avoid using ATMs that look temporary in structure or location  or are located in isolated areas – they may not be legitimate. Use ATMs located inside a bank branch.

Scams : Before sending any money to individuals you have never met in person, visit the  Embassy London website  for more information about  internet financial scams  and how to protect yourself.

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime : Report crimes to the local police at 999 (United Kingdom) or 112 (Gibraltar) and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(44) (20) 7499-9000.

• Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  victim compensation programs in the United States
• The Victim Support website  is maintained by an independent UK charity to help people cope with the effects of crime
• A Northern Ireland-based independent charity maintains a similar  victim support website
• In Scotland, victims of crime should contact  Victim Support Scotland
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support if you are destitute
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

• You will be arrested if you bring pocket knives, blades, mace or pepper spray canisters, or any part of a gun into the United Kingdom . Please refer to the UK government publication  Travelling to the UK , which details the items visitors are prohibited from bringing into the United Kingdom.
• Penalties against  alcohol-related  and other  in-flight  crimes committed aboard aircraft to and from the United Kingdom are stiff and are enforced with  prison sentences . Please also see  our information on U.S. customs regulations  covering your return to the United States.
• Controlled Substances: UK law prohibits possession and trafficking of controlled substances and narcotics, including some substances that may be legal to possess under the law of certain U.S. states. More information on controlled substances is available here . Individuals who violate UK drug laws may face penalties including fines or prison sentences.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained in the United Kingdom, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Special Circumstances:

• The legal drinking age in the United Kingdom is 18. Parents and organizers of school trips should read our  Students Abroad website  to help plan a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Scotland’s “drink drive limit” law was amended to a lower level (roughly .05 BAC) and is stricter than the rest of the United Kingdom (roughly .08 BAC). This means that  driving after even one drink  can result in a charge of driving under the influence.
• The United Kingdom has very strict gun control laws, and importing firearms is extremely complicated.  Information on applying for a firearm and/or shotgun certificate can be found on the  London Metropolitan Police Firearms licensing webpage .  Licenses from England or Wales may not be valid in Scotland; please check with the appropriate authorities.  For firearms certificates for Scotland, please check with  Police Scotland .

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in the United Kingdom.

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:

• UK law requires that all public service providers (except in the transportation sector) make “reasonable adjustments” to ensure their services are available to persons with disabilities.  Nevertheless, code exemptions permit many older buildings to have steps up from the street.
• Getting around in cities may be difficult at times because sidewalks can be narrow and uneven.
• Most London Underground and UK National Rail System stations are not readily accessible for people with disabilities.  Many stations do not have elevators, and have stairways and long corridors for changing trains or exiting to the street. Many UK buses are equipped with lowering platforms for limited-mobility or sight- or hearing-disabled travelers.
• Many taxis have swivel-entry seats or retractable ramps to ease entry.
• Disabled parking permits (known as “blue badges”) are issued by local government councils throughout the country. Visit the  UK government website  for contact information. Some councils may not offer permits to temporary visitors.

The  Transport for London  and  National Rail  websites provide information for passengers with disabilities.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  women travelers .

While medical services are widely available,  free medical care  under the National Health System (NHS) is allowed only for UK residents, certain EU nationals, and some visa holders.

An NHS surcharge is assessed on certain visa applicants at the time of application.  Tourists and short-term visitors will not be assessed the surcharge, but will be charged 150 percent of the cost of any medical treatment they receive from the NHS. Unpaid balances of £1,000 or more can result in being barred from return to the United Kingdom.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills, and U.S. Medicare is not valid overseas.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides  coverage overseas . Most care providers overseas only accept  cash payments . See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas.

• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Carry  prescription medication  in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Traveling with sufficient supplies to last the duration of your trip is recommended. Mailing prescriptions is prohibitive and may be delayed or rejected by British customs.

Certain prescriptions available in the United States are classified as a "controlled drug"  in the United Kingdom and cannot be brought into the country without applying for and obtaining a prior license. This includes prescriptions for medical marijuana or products containing CBD and THC.  Please visit the https://www.gov.uk/travelling-controlled-drugs for additional information. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended for international travel by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions in the United Kingdom can differ significantly from those in the United States.

• In contrast to the United States, UK traffic drives on the left.  Read the  Highway Code  before driving.
• Emergency call boxes  (orange telephone booths with “SOS” printed on them) are found at half-mile intervals along motorways. White and blue poles point in the direction of the nearest call box. Call boxes dial directly to a motorway center. Use these phones rather than a personal cell phone, because motorway center personnel will immediately know your exact location.
• Generally,  pedestrians do not have the right of way  and should not expect vehicles to stop for them.

Many U.S. citizen pedestrians are injured, some fatally, every year in the United Kingdom, because they forget that oncoming  traffic approaches from the opposite direction  than in the United States.  Exercise extra care when crossing streets; remain alert and look both ways before stepping into the street.

Traffic Laws: 

• UK penalties for driving under the influence of  alcohol  or  drugs  are strict and often  result in prison sentences .
• Using a  hand-held cell phone  or similar device while driving is  illegal  in the United Kingdom. Only hands-free phones may be used. You will be  fined , or in the case of an accident,  arrested  and serve time in  prison .
• The speed limit on highways/motorways in the United Kingdom is 70 mph, or lower when posted.
• You will be  detained  and  arrested  if you cannot provide a UK address to receive a subpoena or are about to depart the United Kingdom and have to be brought to court quickly for a motoring offense.
• In Central London, a congestion charge is levied on all drivers who pass through the congestion zone. You will be  fined  or  arrested  if you do not pay the charge. See  Transport for London  for more information about driving in London.

Public Transportation:  Public transport in the United Kingdom is extensive.

• Information on disruptions to London transportation services can be found on the  Transport for London  website.
• Information about the status of National Rail Services can be found on the  National Rail Enquiries  website.
• Bus and train service information in Northern Ireland can be found on the  Translink  website.
• Bus and train service information in Scotland can be found on the  Traveline Scotland  website.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. For specific information concerning UK driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, refer to the  UK Department for Transport  website or the  Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency  website.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of the United Kingdom’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of United Kingdom’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to the United Kingdom should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at  www.marad.dot.gov/msci . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website and the NGA broadcast warnings website (select “broadcast warnings”).

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in the United Kingdom . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, united kingdom map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( A locked padlock ) or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

• Create Account

International Travel as a Permanent Resident

In general, you will need to present a passport from your country of citizenship or your refugee travel document to travel to a foreign country. In addition, the foreign country may have additional entry/exit requirements (such as a visa). For information on foreign entry and exit requirements, see the Department of State’s website .

If seeking to enter the United States after temporary travel abroad, you will need to present a valid, unexpired “Green Card” (Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card). When arriving at a port of entry, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer will review your permanent resident card and any other identity documents you present, such as a passport, foreign national I.D. card or U.S. Driver’s License, and determine if you can enter the United States. For information pertaining to entry into the United States, see U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s webpage .

Permanent residents are free to travel outside the United States, and temporary or brief travel usually does not affect your permanent resident status. If it is determined, however, that you did not intend to make the United States your permanent home, you will be found to have abandoned your permanent resident status. A general guide used is whether you have been absent from the United States for more than a year. Abandonment may be found to occur in trips of less than a year where it is believed you did not intend to make the United States your permanent residence. While brief trips abroad generally are not problematic, the officer may consider criteria such as whether your intention was to visit abroad only temporarily, whether you maintained U.S. family and community ties, maintained U.S employment, filed U.S. income taxes as a resident, or otherwise established your intention to return to the United States as your permanent home. Other factors that may be considered include whether you maintained a U.S. mailing address, kept U.S. bank accounts and a valid U.S. driver’s license, own property or run a business in the United States, or any other evidence that supports the temporary nature of your absence.

If you plan on being absent from the United States for longer than a year, it is advisable to first apply for a reentry permit on Form I-131 . Obtaining a reentry permit prior to leaving the United States allows a permanent or conditional permanent resident to apply for admission into the United States during the permit’s validity without the need to obtain a returning resident visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. Please note that it does not guarantee entry into the United States upon your return as you must first be determined to be admissible; however, it will assist you in establishing your intention to permanently reside in the United States. For more information, see the Travel Documents page.

If you remain outside of the United States for more than 2 years, any reentry permit granted before your departure from the United States will have expired. In this case, it is advisable to consider applying for a returning resident visa (SB-1) at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. An SB-1 applicant will be required to establish eligibility for an immigrant visa and will need a medical exam. There is an exception to this process for the spouse or child of either a member of the U.S. Armed Forces or civilian employee of the U.S. Government stationed abroad on official orders. For more information on obtaining a returning resident visa, see the Department of State’s webpage on returning resident visas .

Additionally, absences from the United States of six months or more may disrupt the continuous residency required for naturalization. If your absence is one year or longer and you wish to preserve your continuous residency in the United States for naturalization purposes, you may file an Application to Preserve Residence for Naturalization Purposes on Form N-470. For more information, please see the Continuous Residence and Physical Presence Requirements page.

If you lose your Green Card or reentry permit or it is stolen or destroyed while you are abroad, you may need to file a Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) . This carrier documentation will allow an airline or other transportation carrier to board a lawful permanent resident bound for the United States without the carrier being penalized. For more information, please see the Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) page.

More Information

• Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants (PDF, 3.57 MB)
• How Do I Get a Reentry Permit? (PDF, 667.32 KB)
• I-131, Application for Travel Document
• I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card

Other USCIS Links

• Green Card Resources
• How Do I Help My Relative Become a Lawful Permanent Resident? (PDF, 577.38 KB)
• How Do I Renew or Replace My Permanent Resident Card? (PDF, 550.19 KB)
• "How Do I" Guides for Permanent Residents

Europe Chevron

United Kingdom Chevron

U.S. Travelers Will Soon Have to Pay to Enter the U.K.

By Sarah James

U.S. visitors—as well as visitors from Europe , Australia and Canada —will soon be required to apply for permission to enter the U.K. through a new scheme known as Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

The U.K. government is in the process of fully digitizing U.K. borders by the end of 2025—and the ETA scheme will play its part, allowing “individuals, and carriers, with more assurance at an earlier point in time about their ability to travel to the U.K.,” the government said.

The scheme will be in place by the end of this year (2023), and visitors will be required to fill out an online application granting them permission to travel. There will be a small fee included in the application—similar to how the U.S.'s own ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) system works for U.K. travelers.

Here's everything we know.

Will I need a visa to enter the U.K.?

This isn't technically a visa—the ETA system will grant travelers permission to enter the country. You will need to apply for an ETA prior to arrival. If you haven't received permission to travel before arrival, you may get fined.

Travelers from the U.S. will soon need to apply for permission to enter the U.K.

How long will it take to get an ETA?

Travelers will be advised to apply for an ETA at least a few days before their journey. Approval should be granted within 72 hours of application.

How long will an ETA last?

After your ETA has been approved, visitors will be granted permission to stay in the U.K. for six months, whether for business or tourism reasons.

The U.K. government is yet to confirm how often visitors will need to apply for a new ETA, but it's likely to be valid for two years—meaning there's no need to apply for a new one every time you visit within the valid time period.

Visitors with valid ETAs can stay—and travel—in U.K. for up to six months.

How much will an ETA cost?

We don't know yet—but the government has said that the cost will be small. The EU implemented a similar system in 2022, which costs €7. A U.S. ESTA, meanwhile, costs $21.

Who will need to apply for an ETA?

The full list of nations included hasn't been announced yet. We do know that U.S. citizens who don't hold a visa will need to apply for an ETA, as will other visa-exempt nations such as Canada and Australia. European countries are likely to be included, too.  Those traveling from nationalities without a visa-free agreement with the UK will still need to apply for another applicable type of UK visa.

What will I need to apply for an ETA?

You'll need a valid passport , an email address to register with, and to supply the details of your travel, as well as a valid debit or credit card to pay any fees to apply.

To keep up to date with the latest information on the ETA scheme, check the official website for more details as they become available.

This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller U.K.  

Recommended

Estelle Manor

The Berkeley

Europe Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• How It Works
• Renewals & Replacements
• British Passport Renewal Requirements
• First-time British Passport
• Prices from South Africa
• Prices from the USA/Mexico/South America/Caribbean
• Prices from Australia
• Prices from Canada
• Prices from New Zealand
• Prices from Europe
• Prices from Asia
• Renew UK passport from South Africa
• Renew UK passport from Australia
• Renew British Passport from the USA
• UK Passport renewals from Canada
• Renew British Passport from New Zealand
• UK Passport renewal from Europe
• Renew British Passport from Asia
• APPLY ONLINE NOW

Can I enter the UK with a passport about to expire?

Last Updated on March 18, 2024 by MyBritishPassport

Can I enter the UK with a passport about to expire? | 

If you’re planning to travel to the United Kingdom, it’s important to make sure your passport is valid.

In this article, we’ll take a look at what you need to know about entering the UK with a passport that’s about to expire, including the requirements for travelers and the steps you’ll need to take to renew your passport. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, understanding these rules can help ensure that your trip goes smoothly.

According to the UK government’s guidelines , it is recommended that your passport have at least six months validity when you enter the UK.

This means that if your passport is due to expire within six months of your arrival date, you may be denied entry. It is best to renew your passport before travelling to avoid any issues or possible denial of entry. It’s also worth checking with your airline or travel provider as they may have additional requirements.

The passport six month rule

The “ six month rule ” refers to the requirement that a person’s passport should have at least six months validity remaining before its expiration date in order for them to be able to enter a foreign country. This rule is not unique to the UK, but is a common requirement among many countries.

The reason for the six month rule is to ensure that the traveler has a valid passport for their entire trip and in case of an emergency or unplanned extension of stay, they have a valid document to remain or return to their home country.

It’s also important to note that some airlines and countries have different rules regarding the expiration date of your passport. It’s therefore best to check with your airline or travel provider before your trip, to avoid any possible issues at the border or during your travel.

Renewing your UK passport from abroad

Are you a British citizen living abroad?

Renewing your UK passport from abroad is now possible through an entirely online process. It is no longer possible to visit a local consulate or embassy to apply in person.

Your British Passport renewal can be done through MyBritishPassport , a company that offers hassle-free online British passport applications, renewals, and replacements from abroad.

By using MyBritishPassport, you can avoid delays and have your British passport delivered straight to your door. The process is simple, you just need to provide the required documents and fill out the online application form. MyBritishPassport will help you throughout the process, providing you with the necessary guidance and support to ensure that your application is completed correctly and promptly. This can save you time and the inconvenience of having to apply directly through the government.

HM Passport Office’s Strict Standards

The HM Passport Office has strict standards when it comes to British passport renewals from abroad. The application process can be complex and requires a significant amount of documentation to be submitted correctly. Incomplete or incorrect applications can lead to delays or even rejection. Moreover, the Passport Office may ask for additional information or documents which can cause additional delays.

To ensure that your application is handled correctly and promptly, it is best to use an expert service like MyBritishPassport. They have the knowledge and experience to help you navigate the application process and ensure that your application is completed correctly. They can also help you prepare the necessary documents and provide you with guidance on how to avoid common mistakes. Using an expert like MyBritishPassport can save you time and the stress of trying to navigate the process on your own.

About MyBritishPassport

If you are a British citizen living abroad and are in need of renewing your British passport, MyBritishPassport can help you do so with ease. The company offers online British passport applications, renewals and replacements for those living abroad. By utilizing their services, you can benefit from:

• Expert guidance from their team on the best course of action for your passport needs
• Preparation and verification of passport forms by MyBritishPassport, simplifying the process for you
• Safe and secure online payment options
• Door-to-door delivery of your documents and newly issued passport via dedicated and reliable courier service.

You can apply now through their easy online form and MyBritishPassport will take care of the rest, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. Click here to start your application today.

Topic: Can I enter the UK with a passport about to expire?

Wondering how far in advance you can renew a UK passport? Find out here. 

Other Helpful Guides:

• Renewing your UK passport from South Africa
• How to renew your British Passport from Australia
• Renewing your British passport in the USA
• UK Passport Renewals from Canada
• Renew UK Passport in NZ
• Renew British Passport from South Africa
• Renew UK Passport from Australia
• British Passports in the USA
• UK Passport Renewals Canada
• Renew British Passport from Europe

ABOUT MYBRITISHPASSPORT

A member of the U.K.PASSPORTS™ group, MyBritishPassport is the leading international British Passport Service Provider catering to British citizens residing outside of the UK. Since its establishment in 2008, the company has been offering efficient and hassle-free online services for British Passport renewals, replacements, and applications from abroad.

The company has gained a reputation as a leading service provider in the industry, with countless verified five-star reviews from satisfied clients worldwide. This speaks volumes about their excellent service quality.

MyBritishPassport has a highly knowledgeable team of British Passport Consultants who are well-versed in all the requirements of the HM Passport Office. They are continuously updated with the latest rules and regulations governing passport issuance, ensuring that their clients receive the most up-to-date advice and guidance.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Tips

How To Renew A British Passport In The USA

Published: December 8, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Margaux Do

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Destinations
• United States

Introduction

Renewing a British passport while in the USA may seem like a daunting task, but with the right information and guidance, it can be a straightforward and hassle-free process. Whether you are a British citizen residing in the USA temporarily or permanently, keeping your passport up to date is essential for travel and identification purposes.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps required to renew your British passport while in the USA. From eligibility and document requirements to completing the application and tracking its progress, we’ve got you covered.

Renewing your passport is crucial as it ensures that you can continue to travel internationally and prove your identity as a British citizen. It also allows you to access consular support and services from the British government while you are in the USA.

Before we dive into the renewal process, it’s important to note that you should start the passport renewal process well in advance of your planned travel dates. This will give you sufficient time to gather the necessary documents, complete the application, and schedule any required appointments.

Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for renewing your British passport in the USA. Generally, you are eligible to renew your passport if your previous passport has expired or is due to expire soon, and you are over 16 years old. Younger applicants may have different requirements, which we will address later in this guide.

Getting your passport renewed in the USA is a straightforward process, although it may take several weeks for the new passport to be issued. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the details of renewing a British passport in the USA!

Eligibility and Requirements

Before you begin the process of renewing your British passport in the USA, it’s important to determine if you are eligible to do so. To be eligible for a passport renewal, you must meet the following requirements:

• You are a British citizen
• Your previous British passport has expired or is due to expire soon
• You are 16 years of age or older

If you are under 16 years old, the renewal process may be slightly different, and you should refer to the official website of the British Embassy or Consulate in the USA for specific guidelines.

Aside from meeting the eligibility criteria, there are several requirements that you must fulfill when renewing your British passport. These include:

• Completing the appropriate application form – In most cases, you will need to complete the “Adult Renewal” application form if you are 16 years or older. For those under 16, a different form will need to be filled out.
• Providing two identical passport-sized photographs – The photos must meet the official passport photo requirements in terms of size, composition, and quality.
• Surrendering your previous passport – You will need to send your previous passport with your renewal application. If your passport was lost or stolen, you will have to follow a different procedure.
• Verifying your identity – You will need to provide proof of your identity, such as a valid driver’s license or government-issued ID. This is to ensure that you are the rightful owner of the passport being renewed.
• Paying the appropriate fees – There are fees associated with renewing your British passport, including a passport fee, courier fee (if applicable), and processing fee.

It’s important to note that meeting these requirements is essential for a successful passport renewal application. Failure to fulfill any of these requirements may result in delays or rejection of your application.

Now that you understand the eligibility criteria and requirements for renewing your British passport, it’s time to move on to the next steps – gathering the required documents.

Gathering the Required Documents

When renewing your British passport in the USA, you must gather and submit certain documents along with your application. These documents are essential for verifying your identity and ensuring that your renewal request is processed smoothly.

Here are the key documents you will need to gather:

• Completed application form – Fill out the appropriate application form based on your age. For adults, the “Adult Renewal” form should be completed.
• Previous passport – Include your most recent British passport when submitting your renewal application. If your previous passport has been lost or stolen, you will need to follow the specific procedure for reporting and replacing a lost or stolen passport.
• Passport-sized photos – Provide two identical passport-sized recent photos that meet the official requirements. These photos should clearly show your face, with no excessive shadows or glares.
• Proof of identity – Include a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license, national ID card, or government-issued ID card. This document should clearly display your full name, date of birth, and photograph.
• Proof of residency – Provide documentation to establish your current residential address in the USA. This can include utility bills, bank statements, or official letters addressed to you at your US address.
• Marriage or name change documentation (if applicable) – If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change, provide the relevant documentation to support the change.

It’s important to ensure that all the documents you submit are valid, clear, and in the required format. Any discrepancies or missing information may lead to delays or rejection of your application.

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, make sure to make photocopies of each document for your own records. These photocopies can serve as backup in case any original documents are lost or misplaced during the renewal process.

With the required documents in hand, you’re now ready to move on to the next step – completing the passport renewal application.

Completing the Application

Completing the passport renewal application is a crucial step in the process of renewing your British passport while in the USA. The application form ensures that the UK authorities have accurate and up-to-date information about you.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to completing the application:

• Download the application form – Visit the official website of the British Embassy or Consulate in the USA to download the appropriate application form. For adults, the “Adult Renewal” form should be selected.
• Read the instructions carefully – Before filling out the form, read through the instructions provided. This will help you understand the requirements and guidelines for completing the application accurately.
• Provide accurate personal information – Fill in your personal details, including your full name, date of birth, place of birth, current address, and contact information. Ensure that all information is accurate and matches the supporting documents you will be submitting.
• Declare any name changes – If you have legally changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons, make sure to declare this in the application. Provide any necessary supporting documentation to verify the name change.
• Include emergency contact information – Provide the details of a trusted individual who can be contacted in case of an emergency while you are outside of the UK.
• Review and sign the application – Once you have completed all the required sections, review the application form for any errors or omissions. Sign and date the form to confirm the accuracy of the information provided.

It is important to fill out the application form legibly and accurately. Any incorrect or misleading information can result in delays or rejection of your passport renewal application. If you have any doubts or questions while completing the application, seek assistance from the official sources such as the British Embassy or Consulate.

Once you have completed the application, it’s time to move on to the next step – making an appointment to submit your application and supporting documents.

Making an Appointment

After completing the application and gathering all the required documents, the next step in the process of renewing your British passport in the USA is to schedule an appointment to submit your application.

Here’s how you can make an appointment:

• Visit the official website – Go to the official website of the British Embassy or Consulate in the USA and navigate to the passport services section.
• Find the appointment booking system – Look for the online appointment booking system or the contact information for the passport office. This information is usually provided on the passport services page.
• Choose a convenient location – Select the passport office location that is most convenient for you. Keep in mind that appointment availability may vary depending on your chosen location.
• Select an available date and time – Use the appointment booking system to choose an available date and time slot for your appointment. It is advisable to book the appointment well in advance to secure your preferred date.
• Provide your information – Fill in the required information, such as your full name, contact details, and passport details. Ensure that you provide accurate information to avoid any issues with your appointment.
• Confirm your appointment – Once you have selected a date and time, confirm your appointment through the online booking system. You may receive a confirmation email or reference number that you should keep for future reference.

It’s important to note that the appointment system may have specific guidelines and restrictions. Make sure to carefully read any instructions provided and arrive at the appointment with all the necessary documents and payments.

If you encounter any issues or have specific requirements or questions, reach out to the passport office through the contact information provided on their website. They will be able to assist you further and address any concerns you may have.

Now that you have scheduled your appointment, it’s time to prepare for the submission of your renewal application and supporting documents.

Attending the Appointment

Congratulations on securing your appointment to submit your renewal application! This is a crucial step in the process of renewing your British passport in the USA. Attending the appointment allows you to present your application and supporting documents to the passport office in person.

Here’s what you need to know for attending the appointment:

• Arrive on time – Ensure that you arrive at the passport office on the scheduled date and time of your appointment. It’s best to arrive a few minutes early to allow for any necessary paperwork or security procedures.
• Bring all required documents – Make sure to bring your completed application form, your previous passport, passport-sized photos, proof of identity, proof of residency, and any additional supporting documents required for your specific circumstances.
• Payment – Be prepared to pay the required fees, including the passport fee, courier fee (if applicable), and processing fee. Check the official website for the accepted forms of payment.
• Answer any questions – The passport office may ask you questions to verify your identity or clarify any information on your application. Answer truthfully and provide any additional documents requested.
• Submit your application – Hand over your application form, supporting documents, and payment to the passport office personnel. They will review your materials and provide you with a receipt or confirmation of submission.
• Collect any necessary information – The passport office may provide you with information on how to track the progress of your application and when to expect your new British passport.

During the appointment, it’s important to remain patient and cooperative. If you have any concerns or questions, feel free to ask the passport office personnel for clarification.

Once you have submitted your application, keep the receipt or confirmation given to you in a safe place. This document serves as proof that your application has been received, and you may need it for reference or future inquiries regarding your passport renewal.

With the submission of your application complete, the next step is to make the necessary payments for your renewal. Let’s explore how to pay the fees in the next section.

Paying the Fees

As part of the process of renewing your British passport in the USA, you will need to pay the required fees. These fees cover the processing and issuance of your new passport. It’s essential to ensure that you pay the fees promptly and accurately to avoid any delays in receiving your renewed passport.

Here’s how you can pay the fees:

• Check the fee schedule – Visit the official website of the British Embassy or Consulate in the USA to find the current fee schedule for passport renewal. The fees may vary depending on factors such as the validity period of the passport and additional services requested.
• Accepted payment methods – Confirm the accepted payment methods for the fees. It’s important to note that cash payments are typically not accepted. Commonly accepted forms of payment include credit cards, debit cards, and money orders.
• Online payment – Some passport offices may have online payment options available. Check if this option is offered and follow the instructions provided to make the payment securely online.
• In-person payment – If you are paying in person during your appointment, be prepared to make the payment using the accepted payment methods. Inform the passport office personnel of your preferred payment method and follow their instructions.
• Keep proof of payment – Once you have made the payment, ensure that you keep a record or receipt of the transaction. This will serve as proof of payment and may be needed for future reference or inquiries.

It’s important to verify the fees and payment process directly with the official sources, such as the British Embassy or Consulate, to ensure accuracy and avoid any potential scams or fraudulent activities.

Once the fees have been paid, you have completed an essential step in the passport renewal process. Now, let’s explore how you can track the progress of your application.

Tracking the Progress of Your Application

After submitting your passport renewal application, you may be eager to know the status and progress of your application. Fortunately, there are ways to track the progress and stay updated on the status of your application.

Here are the steps to track the progress of your application:

• Stay informed during the appointment – During your appointment, the passport office may provide you with information on how to track the progress of your application. They may provide you with a reference number or instructions on how to access the online tracking system.
• Keep your documents and receipt – Keep all the documents and receipts provided by the passport office during your appointment. These will contain important information that you may need to track the progress of your application.
• Use the online tracking system – Visit the official website of the British Embassy or Consulate in the USA and navigate to the passport services section. Look for the online tracking system or the designated portal for tracking passport applications.
• Enter the required details – Follow the instructions provided on the tracking portal and enter the requested information. This may include your reference number, passport number, or other identifying details.
• Check for updates – Once you have entered the necessary information, the online tracking system should display the current status of your application. This may indicate whether it is in process, approved, or if any additional information is required.
• Contact the passport office (if necessary) – If you encounter any issues, delays, or have specific questions about your application, contact the passport office using the provided contact information. They will be able to provide you with more detailed information or address any concerns you may have.

Tracking the progress of your application allows you to stay informed and have peace of mind knowing where your passport renewal stands. However, it’s important to note that processing times can vary, and it may take several weeks for your new passport to be issued.

Now, with all these steps completed, let’s look ahead to receiving your new British passport.

Receiving Your New British Passport

Receiving your new British passport is an exciting moment as it signifies the successful completion of the renewal process. While the exact timeline for receiving your new passport may vary, you can expect to receive it via secure mail delivery at your designated address.

Here’s what you can expect when receiving your new British passport:

• Wait for the processing period – After submitting your application, it may take several weeks for your new passport to be processed and issued. During this time, it’s important to be patient and avoid making any travel plans until you have received your new passport.
• Delivery to your designated address – Your new passport will be securely delivered to the address you provided during the application process. This may be your home address or another designated address. Make sure to be available or have someone available to receive the delivery.
• Sign for the delivery – When the courier arrives with your new passport, you may need to sign for the delivery to confirm receipt. Ensure that you provide a valid signature and keep a copy of the delivery confirmation for your records.
• Check the details – Once you have received your new passport, carefully examine the details to ensure accuracy. Check your personal information, photo, and passport expiry date. If you notice any errors or discrepancies, contact the passport office immediately to address the issue.
• Securely store your passport – Your new British passport is a valuable and important document. Make sure to store it in a safe and secure place. It’s also a good idea to make backup copies or scans of your passport in case it gets lost or stolen while you are traveling.

Receiving your new British passport signifies the successful end of the renewal process. It grants you the freedom to travel internationally and serves as official proof of your identity as a British citizen.

Finally, it’s worth noting that if you have any concerns or questions about your passport delivery or need additional assistance, reach out to the passport office using the contact information provided during your appointment or on their official website.

Congratulations on successfully renewing your British passport! Now it’s time to embark on new adventures with your updated travel document.

Renewing your British passport while in the USA is a manageable process with the right information and guidance. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can successfully navigate the renewal process and obtain your new passport for continued travel and identification purposes.

From understanding your eligibility and gathering the required documents to completing the application, making an appointment, and attending the appointment, each step plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth renewal process.

Remember to pay the required fees and track the progress of your application using the online tracking system or by contacting the passport office if necessary. Lastly, eagerly anticipate the arrival of your new British passport, and once received, keep it secure and in a safe place.

Whether you are a British citizen residing in the USA temporarily or permanently, having a valid and up-to-date passport is essential. It not only allows you to travel internationally but also provides access to consular support and services from the British government while you are in the USA.

Keep in mind that the passport renewal process can take several weeks, so it’s important to start the process well in advance of your planned travel dates. Be patient and allow sufficient time for the application to be processed and your new passport to be issued.

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of renewing your British passport in the USA, you can confidently embark on the renewal journey. Stay organized, follow the guidelines, and reach out to the official sources if you have any questions or concerns along the way.

Enjoy the peace of mind and the freedom to explore the world with your renewed British passport!

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

A Guide To Travelling With Two Passports

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

I acquired dual citizenship a couple of years ago which meant that recently I started travelling with two passports.

And while I’ve been clear for a very long time about the benefits of obtaining dual citizenship and the flexibility that it allows me, it was only until about a day before my long trip through the Balkans that I realised I actually had no idea about the practicalities of having a second citizenship. I had no idea which passport I should use when booking a flight, checking in or passing through immigration.

So after doing some frantic last-minute research, I went to the airport and showed my foreign passport. What ensued was fifteen minutes of confusion when I showed the airline check-in in Australia my foreign passport. The concierge was left whispering to other staff before finally asking me how I had entered Australia and whether I had a visa to stay in the country.

When I meekly showed him my Australian passport, he shook his head at me like I was an idiot and proceeded to tell me, “In Australia, ALWAYS show your Australian passport.”

I’m sure that I’m not the only one that has experienced confusion or uncertainty as to how to travel with two passports from different countries so I’ve created this step by step guide to ensure that you know exactly which passport to use at each stage of travelling!

Disclaimer: I am not an immigration lawyer and this article is only meant to be used as a guide to travelling with 2 passports based on my own experience. I recommend speaking to the relevant embassy if you want more information on your specific situation. 

Table of Contents

A Guide For Travelling With Two Passports

The below outline which of your two passports to use at each stage of travelling.

1. Booking your flight

When booking your flight, airlines will request you enter your passport information as part of the booking process. For countries where you are required to pass through immigration before departing, you should typically enter the details of the passport which you are using in the country of departure.

For example, as an Australian, I will always use my Australian passport when booking a flight out of Australia.

Apart from travelling from Australia, I have generally found that it doesn’t matter which passport you use to book your flight, particularly if you don’t pass through immigration when exiting the country. For example, in the United Kingdom or the USA, there is no immigration when exiting the country and airlines don’t seem to be concerned with your visa status in the departure country.

In countries that don’t recognise dual citizenship, it would be advisable to book your flight on the passport which you are legally using in the country.

2. Checking in at the airport

Whichever passport you have used to book your flight is the same one that you should show when you check in at the airport. It is, however, worth making sure that you add both passports to your packing list as an airline might request to see proof of onward travel.

For example, if I book a one-way flight to Europe, the airline might request to see a return flight as if you’re not a dual citizen they want to make sure you’re not planning on illegally overstaying your visa.

By showing my European passport it gives the airline evidence that I can stay in Europe without any additional visas.

3. Immigration at your departure airport

The passport that you have used to enter the country is the same one you should be showing immigration when leaving the country.

4. Immigration at your arrival airport

Whichever passport allows you the most hassle-free stay is the one you should show when arriving at your destination. There is absolutely nothing wrong with using one passport to exit a country and then entering on another passport.

Also, it’s worth remembering that most countries require you to use the passport of that country if you are a citizen. So if I’m entering Australia, I should enter on my Australian passport rather than obtaining a visa on my European passport.

Whenever planning a trip, a great website I use is the Compare feature on PassportIndex.Org  for deciding which passport to enter with at my destination.

It allows you to line up different passports next to each other and see how the visa requirements vary for every country around the world. This is a fantastic way to save money and time and ensure that you don’t pay any unnecessary visa fees!

Example Scenarios when Travelling with Multiple Passports

Example 1 – australian and uk dual citizen travelling from sydney to london..

1. Booking your flight – Australian passport

2. Checking in at the airport – Australian passport

3. Immigration at your departure airport – Australian passport

4. Immigration at your arrival airport – British passport

Example 2 – US and EU citizen travelling from Paris to Istanbul.

1. Booking your flight – EU passport

2. Checking in at the airport – EU passport

3. Immigration at your departure airport – EU passport

4. Immigration at your arrival airport – as Americans require an eVisa to enter Turkey but EU citizens can enter visa-free, you should use your EU passport.

Can you have Two Passports?

Citizenship law varies from country to country so your ability to acquire two different passports will depend on the specific laws of the two countries of which you wish to have passports.

For example, certain countries like the US, UK, France, Australia, Canada and Switzerland put no restrictions on dual citizenship and you are able to acquire multiple passports as long as it’s allowed by your second country of citizenship.

Some countries put restrictions on your ability to acquire dual citizenship and have quite complex laws to do with how they recognise dual citizenship.

For example, there are no restrictions for Spanish citizens if acquiring dual citizenship with certain Latin American countries but there are restrictions with other countries. In Germany, there are certain situations where citizens will have to choose between nationalities by a certain age. In Pakistan, dual citizenship is only recognised with certain countries.

Other countries such as China and India don’t recognise dual citizenship at all.

Dual citizenship laws are constantly changing and it’s important to keep up to date if you are a dual citizen or wish to acquire citizenship of a particular country. It’s also important to remember that, when travelling, if a country doesn’t recognise dual citizenship then you might not be able to receive embassy assistance if you have entered that particular country on your other passport.

I, therefore, recommend that travellers consider carefully which passport to use, particularly when travelling in more volatile countries.

Travelling with Two Passports with Different Names

In some situations, different countries might issue you passports with different names due to how the name has been translated or a country wanting to use their native language version of your name.

The first thing to do is to see whether the country that is issuing you your passport can add your regular name as a translated version on the page opposite where your main details are located. This will help prove that the passports have the same identity if you ever need to.

When booking your flight, you should ensure you enter the name as it appears in the passport for which you are purchasing and checking into your flight. This will ensure that when you check in and show your passport, the records match up to when you bought the ticket.

In my experience, it’s not a problem to then enter your destination country with your other passport (even if it has a different name) as immigration isn’t checking details against the airline’s manifest.

As always, try to make sure you travel with both passports in case there are any misunderstandings!

Is Travelling with Two Passports Illegal?

For many people there is nothing illegal about having two passports, however, some countries don’t allow or recognise dual citizenship so you need to look into each country’s specific laws.

For citizens of countries such as the USA, Canada, UK & Australia it is common for many citizens to get a second passport from another country.

Other Things to Consider For Dual Citizens

As previously mentioned, I would also recommend taking both passports with you if you are a dual citizen even if you think you’ll only have the need for one of them. It could be helpful for proving onward travel or in the worst-case scenario having two embassies you could contact should there be an emergency when travelling.

Make sure to also  buy a passport holder that allows you to carry two passports! Many passport holders are unfortunately only designed for people with a single passport which can increase the likelihood of you misplacing your other passport!

Before setting off on any trip, are you considering travel insurance? World Nomads offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.

Another option if you’re looking to save money is SafetyWing which offers travel medical insurance and is one of the most affordable providers on the market. Click here to get a quote from SafetyWing and also check out our detailed review of their service.

Travelling with two passports is a privilege for people fortunate enough to be able to do so. Hopefully, this guide clears up any confusion as to which passport you should use at different stages of travelling! 

Do you have two passports from different countries? What issues have you encountered on the road with a second citizenship? Let us know in the comments below! 

Related Posts:

The Best SIM Card For Europe with Data in 2024

Best Travel Lens for Sony A6000 & A6400 (Landscape, Portrait & Zoom)

25 Best Travel Accessories for Europe

About Michael Rozenblit

Michael is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Both solo and with his partner, Maggie, he has travelled to over 50 countries across the globe and has a particular affinity for the Balkans and Eastern Europe. He’s lived in numerous countries worldwide but currently resides in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Read more about Michael

Its a pity you didnt leave the reverse scenarios ? Say you leave UK on US passport and enter Turkey on EU passport what do you do in the reverse senario Do check in with your passport you booked with from the UK ? or the one you arrived on ? Do you switch them around quickly at passport control ?

That would be really helpful to know to people as thats the crucial bit missing.

Hi, I and my kids have dual Serbian and Hungarian (EU) passports.We live in China and our Chinese visas are in our Serbian passports. We plan on traveling to Thailand and am wondering how to go about it as Thailand doesn’t require tourist visas for Hungarian passport holders, however I’ve never traveled with two passports and as I’ll be traveling with kids, I’m a bit concerned.One of my child’s first names is also spelled differently in his passports so that’s another thing.Also, if I book us return tickets, which passport do I use at which point?What I understand is that I should use the passport that let’s me travel with no hassle, however if I buy I return ticket, it will be with our Serbian passports that we used to enter China. But then the same passport will be the one on the return ticket so wouldn’t it be a problem if I enter Thailand with my EU passport, but exit with the Serbian one(as that’s the one I bought the ticket with)?

I’m both citizen from France/Canada I’m planning to go to Paris, France from Canada so if i understand clearly for my round trip , i should follow this:

Canada to France 1/ departing from Canadian airport : always show my Canadian passport 2/ arriving in France, always show my french passport

france to canada 3/ departing from french airport, always show my french passport 4/ arriving in Canada, always show my Canadian passport

i understand i should always be ready to show either my french or canadian passport upon request by the airline staff.

Am i right ?

I have two passports: one is Pakistani, and the second one is from Dominica. If I plan to visit Italy, I will book a ticket from Pakistan to Italy using my Dominica passport, as Italy offers free entry for Dominica passport holders. Now, the question arises: which passport should I present during the boarding and immigration process in Pakistan, and which one should I use when returning from Italy? And while returning back which Passport I do show at Italy at boarding and Immigration. If I show Dominica Passport at Italy boarding then they must ask for Pakistan visa since Pakistan is not visa free for Dominica Passport. So advise what to do? and how to book return ticket?

Hi, I am in mid-process of applying for my three kids’ British Passports. I am British their mum is Japanese and we currently live in Japan. They currently hold New unused 5 year Japanese passports 2028. I have already received one of my twin girls’ British passport already. Am I to understand when they choose to visit family members in the UK 1. they book flights using Jp passport 2. checking-in with Jp passport 3. boarding using B passport 4. entering UK immigration using B passport 5. leaving UK use B passport. 6. Boarding use Jp passport. I look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Hi I was living in canada as permanent resident and having Indian passport but this month I moved to uk on work permit. Soon I will be going back to canada for my citizenship oath .my question is how I can transfer my work permit from Indian passport to Canadian and where I should get it done in canada or in uk , if in uk on which passport should I travel to uk from canada

my 18 yr old grandson arrived from Australia in June on his Aus passport. His British passport arrived recently. He plans to stay here for about 9 months. We know he has to leave the country by 21st December on his Aus passport to ‘validate’ the 6 months he’s allowed to stay, so we are planning a weekend in Spain. does he have to book 2 single flights because easyjet want the passport numbers. If he shows Spanish immigration his British passport ,the numbers won’t match. We’re a bit confused and would like clarification about leaving and re-entering UK

Thanks for the great info and blog! Also many other readers comments are very helpful.

As a recent dual citizen of the US with a UK passport, what led me here was seeking clarity on DEPARTING other countries for a return trip to the US. No longer having a Green Card or Visa makes returning to the US impossible….as the airline is screening on behalf of US immigration. So, if I flew into a ‘third” country on a UK Passport, I would have no choice but to present my US passport for a return flight to the US. Reading comments here, it seems to me that the only time that this becomes an issue is where I am arriving into a third country with a specific entry / exit visa requirement.

If I was traveling between the US and the UK and used my UK passport to enter the UK and present my US passport for a return to the US, that should not create any issue with my UK passport…..is that accurate?

Thanks again for all your great advice

I have a question if I may.

My mum has a British and Thai Passport but the surname in her Thai Passport is still in her maiden name and the British is in her married name.

So working this out right, it should be British passport leaving UK to Thailand. Enter to Thailand in Thai Passport Leave Thailand on British Passport and enter on UK on British Passport.

Am I correct in this?

My husband and I have dual citizenship (Canada/UK) but our two children have Canadian citizenship (but not a Canadian passport yet) so both currently travel only on their UK Passport. We are entering the USA. In the past, I was told to enter and leave the USA on my UK passport because I was flying with my UK passport dependents. So I have an ESTA for all of us. However, should I not be able to enter on my Canadian passport and leave on my UK passport to return home (we live in the UK)? I have read conflicting answers as to whether or not I would need to enter my Canadian passport for both the inbound (to USA) and outbound (to UK) flights, even though when I get to Britain I have to enter on my British passport. Basically, we are trying to confirm whether my husband and I actually do need an Esta of if we can enter as Canadians and leave as Brits!

Am citizen of Ghana and dual citizenship of Bahamas but I enter Qatar with my Ghana passport but now wanted to leave Qatar to Czech republic with Bahamas passport, is it possible to exit on that since the entry stamped was on Ghana passport?

Very informative article. I have UK and Canada passport. Since Brexit, UK citizens are in the 90/180 day restriction. Which is same restriction for Canada passport in some EU countries., So I want to try to use Canada passport for some trips. For example going to Spain. Can I book airfare and exit UK on Canada passport. Enter Spain on Canada passport. Exit Spain in Canada passport. Enter UK on British passport. So all the days for that trip are in my Canada passport.

My husband and I are on holiday in Australia, we have dual nationality and possess both UK and Australian passports; We live in France with permanent residence cards (carte de sejour).

We’ve used our Australian passports to come here, are we right in thinking that on our return trip to France we use our Australian passports on exiting the country in transit at Singapore we can use our Australian passports and at immigration in France show our English passports with our residence cards (carte de sejour).

Travelling with Malaysian and American passport to Malaysia from America

Summary I have a Malaysian and American passport with the below situation and appreciate thoughts on below especially on return to America because of visa requirement.

Situation Passports – I have both Malaysian and American passports Visas – Malaysia requires visa to visit America but America does not require visa to visit Malaysia or second country Hong Kong Policy – I understand America doesn’t care that I have a not allowed Malaysian passport but Malaysia does not allow me to have an American passport and will make me choose passport if discovered

Travel Book ticket in America – use Malaysian passport Check in at starting airport in America – use Malaysian passport Departing immigration in America – Not applicable Arriving immigration in Malaysia – use Malaysian passport

Book ticket – do I have to book 2 one way tickets instead of round trip because I have to use Malaysian passport to depart Malaysia because I don’t have visa for Malaysian passport to visit America and switch passports in intermediary country Hong Kong on the way? Check in at returning airport in Malaysia – use Malaysian passport Departing immigration in Malaysia – use Malaysian passport

Intermediary country Hong Kong arriving immigration – switch from Malaysian to American passport despite flight data? Intermediary country Hong Kong departing immigration – use American passport to match arrival and departure passport? Intermediary country Hong Kong check in – use American passport

Arriving immigration in America – use American passport

Scenario above doesn’t even get into the complications of having to renew Malaysian passport in Malaysia because I don’t have a green card to renew Malaysian passport while living in America. I appreciate anyone’s advice. Thank you.

Trying to figure this out for a trip coming up. I have dual citizenship USA/Portugal. I am traveling to Barcelona in March, but my first stop in Paris is where I will go through passport control. Is this the process: 1. Show US passport at San Francisco airport 2. When I arrive in Paris go to the EU line with my Portuguese passport 3. When returning I show again my US passport at airport 4. Use US passport at SFO.

I only use my EU passport when I arrive in Paris correct?

Also my name doesn’t match on them. EU one is my maiden name.

Hi, I hold dual citizenship, British and Italian. I had always understood that in Britian I should use the British one and in Italy the Italian one. I was told by the Italian authorities that I could book the ticket and check in with either passport but had to show my Italian passport at Italian passport control and my British passport at British passport control. I had always booked the tickets with my British passport and showed the necessary passport at the passport controls and had never had any problems (including several visits this year between the two countries) until this week, when I left Britain to come back to Italy, where I am resident. I had checked in online with my British passport but at the bag drop in Heathrow a message came up saying my documents had to be checked. The airport member of staff then told me that because I was resident in Italy and travelling to Italy I had to travel on my Italian passport even though I was leaving Britain. This had never happened before. Has something changed? Does this mean that every time I leave Italy I have to check in with my British passport as I’m travelling to Britain but use my Italian passport at passport control in Italy and the British one on arrival and then when I leave Britian check in with my Italian passport? This is what I understood from the member of staff but it is different from what the Italian authorities told me.

Hi, I have 2 passports Swedish and Vietnamese with 2 different names. In order to be exempted from visa when entering Vietnam, the round-trip air ticket should be shown as the name on the Vietnamese passport. However, I do not know how should I show right document to the police at Arlanda airport when I leave and back Sweden? Thanks

Very helpful site Michael. I hold dual US and NZ citizenship,and live in USA.I am thinking of moving to Australia,(elderly parent) and as a NZ citizen can enter Australia on my NZ Passport and be automatically granted a Special Category Visa.(SCV 444)),which permits me to stay indefinately. However as I have to leave the US on my US Passport,would I need to obtain an entry visa from Australia in my US Passport to prove to US immigration(or airline officials) I have authority to enter Australia?

Hi, the thing that is confusing is the following. I booked an international ticket online (turkish airways). I think (but can’t recall) if it asked me to enter my passport number (I think if it did, I filled out my USA passport number) to buy the ticket. When I leave NY they will want my ‘i.d./passport’ so I was going to show them my USA passport (I do not want them knowing I have another foreign passport).

Now the issue is this – when I transit in Istanbul (I think that’s where immigration might be, or is it the final destination? Not sure but I think its the first foreign country you land in?), I was planning only then to pull out my Bulgarian passport to show (Turkey), not even mentioning I have the USA passport. Then when the flight continues from Istanbul to Bulgaria, I was going to use my Bulgarian passport to enter Bulgaria (not mentioning the USA one). Would that all work out fine?

The main issue and conflicting part from several articles I have read is in the booking of the ticket – that whatever passport number you used when buying the ticket – that is what Immigration in the destination country will see (your US passport #) – which would be a problem (since I booked with my USA one). I want to know is it true that Istanbul or Bulgaria receive some type of ‘manifest’ that shows I left the USA with a US passport, but now am trying to enter these countries with a non-US passport?

Its confusing – because I read ‘as a US citizen, to always enter and exit on the USA passport’ YET if the ticket you are booking is to a foreign country (that you are also a passport holder of) will that cause problems when entering that other place without your US passport (since you bought the ticket with a US passport number and are showing only that US passport that at the US ticket counter)? Not sure if this is making any sense.

If you can explain this I would appreciate it.

To those of you who will be asked ‘where is your onward ticket’ – and you don’t want to pull out your other passport – since I feel its a violation of my privacy, and I don’t want to advertise that fact – you can always go to onwardticket and print out a ticket (or on your phone) for $15.00 to shut up the rep at the ticket counter at check in.

UK and USA passport. If I go USA to UK, I understand I should leave the US and return to the US on my American passport, and enter and leave the UK on my UK passport. On the understanding that you should leave and enter on that countries passport. My question, if I book my USA-UK flight and check-in with UK passport, should I then switch to my US one when going through the US security to leave the US. Or should I book, check in and security with my US passport only and then swap over to the UK passport upon landing in the UK.

Hi Michael I have a British and an Australian passport. Can I use my British Passport in order to stay 90 days in Spain and then return on my Australian passport to Spain for another 90 days without the restriction of the 90/180 day rule?

Can you book a return ticket with 2 different passports? Country of departure for your outward trip and country of departure for your return trip. Someone told me that you can’t do that. Is that true?

Hi I have a NZ Australian passport and would like to travel home to NZ for a few weeks. Can I leave Australia on my Australian passport, enter NZ on NZ passport then when I leave NZ again use my Australian passport?

I’m dual British/Australian and due to travel back to the uk to see my family for a short visit. My British Passport expired last year and currently being renewed. If I don’t get the new one in time am I ok to travel from Oz to England and back again only with my Aussie passport??

I have British & German citizenship. When I travel to the European Union I want to stay there for more than 90 days so I will need to use my German passport. Is it OK to leave Britain using my British passport & land in the EU using my German one? Which passport should I use when filling in the advance passenger information? Thanks

Hi Michael, thanks for your article and sharing your experience! I hold an Argentinian and Spanish citizenships. I’m currently in Australia with a visa (issued with my Argentinian passport) and I’m planning on going back to Argentina for a few weeks and then return to Australia. The thing is, as there are limited flights, I can only reach Argentina if I transit through the US (ie, Australia – US – Argentina) and I understand I need to hold a US transit visa, which I do have with my Spanish passport. So, I’m not sure if I need to depart Australia with my Argentinian passport (since I entered Australia with it), even though the visa to transit the US is linked to my Spanish passport, or if I need to depart Australia with the Spanish passport (since my US visa is linked to it), but maybe that generates an issue when trying to leave Australia. I appreciate any piece of advice. Thanks!

My case is bit complicated and would love some insight from you guys. I’m a dual US-Algerian citizen with a planned flight from Washington to Algiers. I’m also doing an overnight landside transit in heathrow. I will be sleeping at a hotel nearby, which means I would have to go through border control et? Can someone tell me which passports to use at which point but especially in heathrow during entry and exit. Also APIS from which passport should I use in the different steps of the trip? Thanks in advance.

Hello Michael, thank you for a very informative article.

I’m citizen of United States and Ukraine. My dilemma is that I have two different last names. Due to marriage to US citizen. Ukraine doesn’t recognise dual citizenship. Is there a way of travelling as it is and just showing a marriage certificate? Thank you

RE: Traveling between two countries I don’t have passports for?

Hi Michael – thanks so much for this blog! I’m wondering – I have dual citizenship – Taiwan and USA. Both countries allow visa free stay for 90 days within the Schengen states in a 180 days period.

Traveling from USA, I will be in Switzerland for 90 days, and ideally would like to head to Germany right afterwards instead of having to wait for the extra 90 days out of the Schengen state area to go back into Germany.

Is it possible for me to enter Switzerland as a Taiwanese citizen, and after my 90 days stay in Switzerland, to immediate enter Germany as a USA citizen?

Where can I find more information on this type of situation?

Thanks so much!

Hi Venetia, I don’t believe this is allowed. You can contact the relevant embassy for confirmation.

Hello! Let me start off by saying this is a great article and I think it’s great you have kept up with it after so many year. My question is, I am Japanese but i have recently obtained Canadian citizenship. I want to move back to Japan but i dont want to have any issues seeing as Japan doesn’t allow dual citizenship. So when i leave canada, should i only use my Japanese passport (buy my ticket in Canada, board the plane from canada, and land in japan all with my japanese passport)

Thank you for your time!

Thanks Joe! That sounds like a reasonable plan!

Hi Michael. Thanks for this post. I just came across it. However it has also got me really worried.

Some background on my situation. I am an Australian Citizen by birth and have lived here all my life. I have an Australian Passport. I also acquired Greek citizenship by decent and recently obtained a Greek passport. I mainly did this so that my children could in the future claim Greek citizenship through decent.

The name on my Greek passport and Australian Passport differ (as my name in Greek is spelt differently, and they also do not have a middle name). Surname is the same on both.

Australian Passport first name (plus middle name): George Steven SURNAME
 Greek Passport first name (no middle name): Georgios SURNAME

To date the difference in names has not concerned me as I always planned to travel to Greece using only my Australian Passport.

However I recently came across the proposed new ETIAS Visa Waiver authorisation (due by start of 2023). This will complicate the situation for dual citizens (who hold an EU passport and say an Australian Passport as I do). Technically I may not be able to apply for a Visa Waiver as I am an EU citizen with a valid passport (even though I would be happy to apply for an ETIAS Visa Waiver so that I could just travel on my Australian Passport)

My understanding to date on how to use both passports- until reading your post- has been the following:

FLYING FROM AUSTRALIA to GREECE – Buy a one way ticket using Greek passport details A. I purchase the airline ticket in the name of the passport that will allow me to enter the destination country. So in my case if I fly from Australia to Greece , the name should be booked under GEORGIOS SURNAME as I will not have an ETIAS Visa Waiver (as I am a citizen of an EU nation). B. At Australian immigration I would present my AUSTRALIAN Passport (as Australia wants you to exit and enter on the Australian Passport) C. At Greek immigration I would present my GREEK PASSPORT

However ,based on what you have written in your post I should purchase my airline ticket to Greece and check in at the airline desk with my Australian Passport details . The concern if I do this I that will not be able to enter the EU using my Australian Passport as I will not have an ETIAS Visa Waiver (even though I do not need one as I am a Greek Citizen with a Greek passport). Theoretically the airline could stop me from boarding.

RETURN FLIGHT GREECE TO AUSTRALIA A. The flight ticket would be the same as my Australian Passport (GEORGE STEVEN SURNAME) B. At Greek immigration I would present my GREEK PASSPORT 
C. At Australian immigration I would present my Australian Passport

I am really at a loss as what to do based on your post. I feel like I may never be able to travel back to Greece for a holiday (or at least until my Greek passport expires).

Changing names is not option . I have been advised by the Greek consulate that a change of name is virtually impossible for Greeks without going to court. Changing my name in Australia would be crazy because this is where I live , work , study and everything I have is in my Australian name.

I cannot understand why I am not able to purchase my flight to Greece using my Greek passport details and then exit Australian immigration my Australian Passport ?

Any advice would really be helpful. This has really upset me

Hi George, If you show your Greek passport to the airline in Australia that should be sufficient evidence for them to prove that you can enter Europe legally, regardless of the passport you book your ticket with.

Hi Michael. Thank you for responding so quickly. Still trying to get a handle of this.

Just to clarify your approach:

A. Purchase airline ticket from Australia to Greece in Australian Passport Name : George Steven Surname B. At Airline check in show them Australian Passport (as it will match ticket name) – however no valid ETIAS Visa Waiver would be linked C. At Australian Immigration departure go through with Australian Passport D. In Greece use EU passport on arrival

A and B above still concern me because my Australian Passport will flag on the system that I do not have an ETIAS Visa Waiver. I will then show them my EU passport, but the names GIORGOS and GEORGE STEVEN are different (but the surname, face, DOB and other details will be the same). If they accept this then I assume there must be some system override which they would have to notify Australian Immigration via the Advance Passenger Processing system (APS) and BOC and somehow link the passports ?

I have been reading on adf.gov.au about airline obligations. It states that airlines must: a. Provide advance passenger reports on all passengers and crew B. Not carry undocumented or inadequately documented passengers

My logic is still telling me that I should book the flight from Australia to Greece using my Greek Passport name as the airline will want to make sure I can go through immigration in Greece ……….but there must be something I am missing from your post. When you originally stated that the airline said to you “Always show your Australian Passport”, did that mean “show” or to “book your ticket with that passport” ?

Hi George, As the ETIAS waiver isn’t in force yet, I do not know how or if the advice in this article will change.

Hi, i am a dual national and was wondering how the iata travel pass would work given that it stores passport details but when i depart my first home country i use passport A which is registered with iata travel pass but my arrival country, passport B is not tied to the iata travel pass…

Hi, Michael Thank you for all your information. I have US passport and Thai passport. Before I became US citizens, I had Green card. I traveled to Thailand with my Thai passport. After years later, I became US citizens and I applied US passport. I traveled to Thailand many times by useing only US passport because at that time, I don’t know I still can use Thai passport to enter to Thailand Until my Thai passport expired, so I went to renew Thai passport at Royal Thai Embassy and it was expired 4 years ago. If I renew Thai passport and I will be going to use Thai passport to enter Thailand. Do you think Thai immigration will giving me hard time by asking me such as where have you been? Etc I don’t use my Thai passport over 20 years. Any advice woud be much appreciated. Thank you

Hi Saowanee, I don’t know specifics about Thai immigration rules for dual citizens.

Hi Michael,

I’m a US citizen with a Turkish passport with a different first and last name than my US passport. I would like to Travel to Mexico using my Turkish passport. Can I book the tickets with my Turkish name and depart to Mexico with my Turkish passport without showing my US passport? Upon my return I would need to show my US citizenship in order to enter back in the country but would I run into any sort of trouble? I would like all my flight info and immigration to be from my Turkish and not US.

I would also like to do the same thing with future travels. Book/travel with my Turkish passport/name but enter back into the States as smoothly as possible given my situation.

HI Michael I will be entering Spain on my Australian passport therefore I know I can stay a maximum of 90 days before exiting to UK (able to enter there with UK passport) for 90 days. I have applied for an Irish passport but this is delayed by the lockdown in Ireland. I understand that no matter what I will need to depart Spain on my Australian passport to show I have exited the Schengen zone. My question is that if my Irish passport arrives can I re-enter mainland Europe and/or Spain before my 90 days out of the zone in UK is up? Obviously I will still be the same person who could only stay in the zone for 90 days out of 180 days, but with an Irish passport I will have the right to live and work in Europe. I do not want to break the law but also am not hugely keen to stay for 90 days in UK if it is not necessary. Any advice woud be much appreciated.

Hi Anie, I think once you have an Irish passport as an EU citizen there shouldn’t be any restrictions on your ability to enter Spain or any EU country outside of any current restrictions imposed. If you would like confirmation, I would suggest contacting the Irish Embassy.

Hello – I reside in Canada and hold Canadian and Taiwanese passports. Flying from Canada to Taiwan, should I be filling out my departure flight passport info with Canadian or Taiwanese? Am I able to check into the flight with Taiwan passport and show Canadian passport at departure security? Otherwise not seeing at what point will it register on my Canadian passport I have departed Canada. I know I’m to use Canadian upon return but will there be an issue if it never showed that I left on Canadian?

Hi Bron, you should show your Canadian passport when going through immigration at your departure airport – this doesn’t have to be the same passport as the one you check in with.

Hi, I’m a dual citizen of Australia and Uk, living in the UK. My UK passport was recently stolen… but is it possible for me to travel out of, and back into, the UK, using my Australian passport?

Hi Spencer, you should get a new UK passport before leaving the UK. Typically countries which you’re a citizen of won’t allow you to enter on a different passport.

Hi, I am sooo happy to find someone to ask this to. Thanks for your help. I am a dual citizen Spanish-Mexican, I recently visited the US and entered with my Spanish passport with the ESTA, but when leaving, I decided to do check-in on line, my Spanish passport was there, but it did not let me do the check in, I was told by the airline I needed my Mexican passport to go back, so I simply entered the Mexican’s passport info and it went through fine, went to the airport, printed the boarding pass on a kiosk and went through security handing my Spanish passport only to realize that what they did scan was the boarding pass on which the Mexican info was in. They let me through as they only check the name, boarded the plane and left. Will I have any problem when going back to the US?

Hi Karen, I can’t say for certain but I doubt this will be an issue. When applying for an ESTA you enter your dual citizenship information so I imagine the US system has your information linked.

Thanks for the helpful post. Any idea what procedure dual US-EU citizens should follow when traveling from the US to Europe starting in 2021? European authorities will soon require American citizens to apply for a visa waiver travel authorization (ETIAS) before departing on flights to the Schengen zone.

Until now, I’ve always presented my US passport at check-in when leaving the United States (which, according to the State Department, is the law for US citizens). However, the ETIAS authorization will complicate things for dual citizens, who are supposed to exit the US with an American passport, but won’t need the visa waiver authorization because they are also EU citizens. Which passport should dual nationals share with the airline on flights to Europe? Do we add the US passport details upon booking but check in with the EU passport? Or enter the EU passport details into APIS when booking?

It looks like dual nationals may need to register their EU passport with the airline for flights from the US to Europe, and their US passport at check-in for flights from Europe back to the US. I’m a bit reticent about departing the US on my EU passport, as the US would have no record of my leaving the country. Yet if I fly out on my US passport, I can see a messy situation where the airline might deny boarding on a flight to Europe because they don’t see an EU travel authorization (even though I wouldn’t need one as an EU citizen). Thanks for any advice.

Hi Justin, I doubt it’ll be much of an issue as long as you travel with both passports. Showing the airline your EU passport should be sufficient even if booking on your US passport to prove that you can enter the EU without an ETIA.

Hello Michale, I am a dual CZ / VN citizen. I will fly with my friends to Vietnam and we would like to stop in China and visit Beijing. Should I fly with Cz passport and then when entering and leaving Vietnam prove the Vietnamese passport? I bought a ticket for a Czech passport. Thanks for your advice.

Hi Nga, Most countries require you to use that country’s passport when entering if you are a citizen.

My scenario is different. I have dual citizenships of two countries (eg. Kenya and Cameroon) which you certainly need to apply for a visa for entry into most parts of the world. I would like to know if it is possible to apply and obtain a Schengen visa on both passports. I currently have a multiple entry Schengen visa on one passport, but I would like to use the second passport/nationality at times visit Europe. Can I apply for another Schengen visa on the other passport at the same time? Thanks for your advice.

Hi Kongi – you should ask this to whoever is processing your Schengen Visa.

Hi Michael I am a dual UK/US citizen. I live in the UK and always have done but my mother is from the States. My children are not dual nationality so just have UK passports.

My UK passport has expired so I am using my U.S passport to travel with my children on a family holiday. I am doing this because a few years ago I was reprimanded by a TSA agent for travelling on my UK passport and thus having had to apply for an ESTA. He told me that under no circumstances was I to travel on a UK passport into or out of the USA if I was a US citizen.

Last year I travelled to Italy from the UK with my son, and because I was using my US passport and he was using his UK passport he and I had to endure standing in a 2.5hour queue for non-EU citizens on our return to the UK. We were then reprimanded by UK passport control officers and not allowed re-entry to the UK because they said I had no documentation to say I had leave to stay in the UK. I live in the UK and had my UK bank cards and drivers license etc but that wasn’t acceptable proof. THEY told me I need to show my UK expired passport alongside my US passport on re-entry to the UK. (However, only one month earlier I had returned from Spain and travelled both ways on my US passport without any problems!)

What do you suggest I do this time? I am travelling to the US in 2 weeks, and my UK passport is still expired. Should I try to rush a renewal through???

Most countries have rules that if you are citizen you have to enter that country on its own passport.

I’m a US/NZ dual citizen. Just want to clarify. I booked a flight from NZ to US using my NZ passport. I show my NZ passport to check-in and NZ immigration whilst keeping my US passport available just in case they wish to see it. Then once arriving in the US, I use my US passport at customs there for entry. Again, keeping my NZ passport available just in case. Upon exiting the US, I show my US passport, then upon entry into NZ, I show my NZ passport. Correct? Do I need to obtain an ESTA visa since I used my NZ passport to book my return flight from NZ?

That sounds right to me. You shouldn’t need an ESTA as you are a US citizen.

Hi Michael, I will be renewing my US passport in HK, however I live in China and I have another country’s passport with my visa to China in it. Do you think I would be allowed to travel back to China and stay there while waiting for my American passport to finish the renewal process?

If you enter HK on your US passport then you’ll need it to leave HK and go back to China. If you enter HK on your other passport then I don’t think it should be an issue.

Nice article Michael.

Very well written and very helpful article, thank you!! I soon will become an Australian citizen and will be a dual passport holder. Unfortunately my first citizenship is from a country that does not allow two citizenships and I don’t want to give up my original passport. After reading your article then I should follow example 1 on your article however I have some questions that I hope you might be able to help given my circumstances.

1. If I booked my flight, checked-in and go through Australian immigration using my Australian passport, would my Australian passport details be pass on to my original country and raise a flag when I arrive there?

2. If I booked my flight, checked in using my original passport and then use my Australian passport at the Australian immigration, would this be a problem at the Australian immigration as they may only the details of my original passport from the airline? If yes is this something that can easily resolve by showing both my original passport as well as my Australian passport?

Also would Australian immigration providing my Australian passport details to the arrival country or this only be done by the airlines and not the Australian immigration department?

I hope my questions aren’t too confusing and a million thanks in advance.

Hi, I imagine the amount of information that is shared between immigration offices will be based on the relationship between the two countries. I’m not sure exactly what Australian immigration will pass on but I do know that you will get questioned at check-in if you try to check in with a passport that you haven’t used to enter Australia. I suggest reaching out to some other people in your situation and see what their experience is.

Hi, Thanks for this article. I have two passports (AUS/UK) and was wondering, if I enter France for example on my Australian passport (and also leave on it) and then the next time I enter on my UK passport, can the system recognize that I am the same person travelling on a different passport or am I technically ‘two different people’? Thanks, Jess

Hi Jess, AUS & UK share information so they’ll likely be able to connect the dots, particularly if you have the same name on both passports.

Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us all!

I have a question and I’d like to know if anyone could help.

I have Japanese and Brazilian passports, and I live in Tokyo. I’m going to Italy in 2 days but I just realized now that you need to have passport that is valid for over 90 days to enter Europe. My Japanese passport will expire next month.

I think the main issue would be with the airline during check-in. If I show them my Japanese passport (to prove I’m a citizen of japan) but explain that I plan on arriving in Italy with my Brazilian one (that is valid for 5years), would they be okay with that? Even I bought the ticket with my Japanese passport?

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!

I think it should be fine however you could call the airline to confirm.

Hi Michael, My wife and I have valid US and Armenian passports. We’ll be travelling to Prague for four days, then to St. Petersburg, RU. I’d like to enter without visa, as my Armenian passport should be visa-free. What do you think?

Hi Leo, I don’t think it should be a problem – just show your Armenian passport when entering Russia.

Hello, I’m Chinese but now have the Italian citizenship. I have the Italian passport but also the Chinese one, renovated recently. I also still have the residency permit for Italy. Do you know/think if they will let me enter without a visa in China? I think I will stay like for a month.

If you have a Chinese passport, wouldn’t you need to use that to enter China?

Thank you for responding and yeah but you know that China don’t allow have two citizenship or passports. And I’m afraid that they won’t let me pass or something like this.

I suggest trying to contact some people that might be in a similar situation to you as I’m not sure about the practicalities of the Chinese dual citizenship laws.

My son has German and South Korean passports. We live in China, and we plan to travel to Russia, which means we have a round trip flight tickets. He has his Chinese residency visa on his German passport, but he can travel to Russia visa-free using his South Korean passport, so we’d like to save money and not apply for his Russian visa on his German passport. Which passport number should he be using for airline ticket booking? I tried calling the airlines, all relevant embassies, and at one point even the immigration office, but no one seems to be able to give a clear answer. Perhaps you can help…?

Hi YL, in terms of immigration, he can use his German passport to exit China and the South Korean passport to enter Russia. Theoretically, it shouldn’t matter which passport you use on the airline booking though some countries have their airline check-in linked to immigration which might cause confusion if you’ve entered a passport that you haven’t used to enter the country (this could occur in both China and/or Russia). I’m not sure if that is the case in China or Russia, however, hopefully as long as he has both passports with him, then it can be used to clear up any confusion.

I have booked a return ticket for my mom departing from (Johannesburg, South Africa) and arriving in New York (United States) in September.

My mom is a South African Citizen that holds dual citizenship by having also having an Italian (EU) passport.

The problem is that my moms South African Identity Document and South African passport are in the name of her married surname, but her italian(EU) passport is in her maiden name. Apparently she was told that in Italy they always use your maiden surname for your passport.

The problem is that i have booked the ticket in her Married surname which matches her South African passport ,but differs from her Italian passport that uses her maiden surname. Of course it is easier to enter the united states on her Italian passport as you get a visa exemption by application for the ESTA online application. It is alot cheaper as it is about 17$ as apposed to 100$ plus for applying for a full visa on your South African passport.

I have considered cancelling the ticket and re-booking it in her Italian maiden surname, but then my issue lies that leaving South Africa legally you need to leave and return on your South African passport. The problem then is that the surname on the ticket and south african passport will differ.

What complicates matters further is that she got divorced years ago but still retained her married name so we can’t even use a marriage certificate to indicate the difference in surnames on her South African and Italian passport.

I sincerely hope you can guide me with which is the best way to handle this. I am worried that the current way of booking the ticket on her Married surname will result in her being detained from entering the united states as the surname will differ to that on her italian passport. But then, if we change the ticket to her maiden Italian passport surname , we might have issues getting her out of South Africa to New York, what to do 🙁

Hi Marco, She could fly out of South Africa on her SA passport, do the ETSA application on the Italian passport and then enter & exit the US on her Italian passport. The airline might ask for proof that she can enter the US and then showing the Italian passport should be sufficient – you can call the airline to clarify this to make sure.

Thankyou Michael. After much effort i was able to get some clarity on the airlines twitter support handle. It seems it will be fine whether we booked on the SA passport name or Italian passport name as long as we bring both passports.

Great to hear Marco!

Hi! I am a Kuwait and Philippines passport holder.

In a few months, I am flying to South Korea, where my Kuwait passport doesn’t need a visa. I will be coming from the Philippines. (The Philippines passport needs a visa to enter Korea. I have done this before and was granted single entry whilst my Kuwait passport was being renewed.)

This time, can I use my Kuwait passport, or should I just apply for a visa to Korea using my Philippines passport again? What details should I use for booking, and which passport should I present/bring at what point in the process?

Any help would be much appreciated!

Hi Fati, You can enter/exit Korea on your Kuwait passport and enter/exit Philippines on your Philippines passports.

I have British and NZ citizenship and passports, but live in the UK. I have a new NZ passport acquired in the UK, but not used. I am awaiting for my British passport to be returned from the Russian embassy with a visa to visit Russia (meant to be fast track and posted back), but am worried that I might not have received it back by the time I leave for a trip planned to Armenia early next month.

In the event of my UK passport not arriving before the Armenia trip could I use my NZ passport to depart the UK, and then for return to the UK? I don’t think there would be any issue using the NZ passport to enter and leave Armenia.

The trip to Russia is not until early July.

Grateful for any advice.

Hi Paul, Many countries don’t allow you to enter a country that you are a citizen of with another passport. I’m not sure about the UK specific rules but I think this might cause an issue when re-entering the UK. Do you have a UK ID Card you could use to enter instead?

You shouldn’t have an issue leaving the UK as they don’t check passports and New Zealand is visa-free for Armenia so you could theoretically enter Armenia on your NZ passport and then use a UK ID Card to return.

Hi, Michael

My 11 year old nephew is a US citizen by birth and Chinese citizen by descent. Since China doesn’t recognize dual citizenship, he holds a Chinese travel document (equivalent to Chinese passport for minors) and a US passport. Next month, he will be traveling from US to Spain to China.

My questions are:

1) Should he enter Spain with US passport (no visa needed) or with a Schengen visa to be obtained on his Chinese travel document?

2) Should he book the airline ticket using US passport (departing country) or Chinese travel document (final destination)?

3) If he enters and leaves Spain with US passport, will Spain exit immigration or airline see this as a problem because his US passport doesn’t have a visa to China? Will showing them Chinese travel document suffice?

4) Can he enter Spain with US passport and leave Spain with Chinese travel document? or this could be a problem because he wasn’t “logged out of” Spain on his US passport?

5) Enter Spain with a Schengen visa on Chinese travel document. Will Spain even grant him a short-stay Schengen visa because he’s US citizen?

Would appreciate your insights on this, thank you!

Hi JG, I suggest you speak to somebody that understands the implications of entering China after visiting a country with another passport as I’m not sure about the checks that China would specifically do.

In terms of entering Spain, if he enters with his US passport then he needs to leave on his US passport. Spanish immigration won’t care about whether he can enter China legally or not however the airline might ask for proof that he can enter China (showing a Chinese travel document should be sufficient). I’m not sure whether Spain would grant a Schengen visa in such a situation.

One option if possible could be to book the USA to Spain leg on the US passport and then Spain to China on the Chinese passport, however, as suggested above, it’s probably best to speak to somebody that is across what checks China specifically does when entering the country to ensure he doesn’t have any issues.

Ok it may have been answered already and I’m sorry if it has. I booked a flight to Portugal from Vancouver but I have two connections one in Montreal and in Amsterdam before arriving to Portugal. My passport details when I booked my flight is Canadian. When I arrive into Amsterdam should I use my Canadian passport or Portugal passport or my Portugal identity card (my Portuguese passport will be new 2 months)

Hi Gina! If you’re staying in the Schengen Area for under 90 in 180 days then it doesn’t matter which passport you use (the line might be shorter for EU passports though!). If you’re staying for longer than that then use your Portuguese passport. I think an ID card is valid in the same way as a passport when entering into the EU.

Hi, my girlfriend wants to come visit me in Holland. Her departure is from Thailand and as far as i know Thailand doesnt support dual citizenship, if im correct. Her new german passport will arrive soon and im wondering what would be best. I thought it would be best to register her Thai passport on the ticket and check-in + immigration from Thailand (departure) with her thai passport. Then at arrival in Holland use her German passport. At departure from Holland use the german passport again and at arrival in thailand use her Thai passport again. Is that correct?

Besides, i wonder if the thai immigration will ask for her visa going to Holland cause as a thai citizen traveling to holland you need a visa. Or is that only the concern of the Dutch immigration? That way it wouldnt be a problem arriving in holland with a German passport.

We have been doing alot of research and it is just hard to tell what is right or wrong.

Hi Kevin, The airline she’s flying with will need to check that she can enter the destination legally. I suggest contacting the airline and confirming with them that showing the German passport will be sufficient proof.

Usually when going through immigration they don’t check or care where you’re going. I don’t know if Thai immigration is any different but that usually means that they just stamp you out and don’t do any further checks. As you’ve said when in Holland, enter and exit on the German passport and then re-enter Thailand on the Thai passport. Hope that helps!

Im trying to figure out in advance the new pre-screening that USA citizens will need to enter Europe beginning in 2021. I have both passports and usually travel in the exact way that you suggest. However I’m unclear now as to whether I will need to pre-screen, I have the EU passport, but if I book and exit the USA with the USA passport it seems I could be required to pre-screen? Any thoughts on this?

I’m not across all the details of pre-screening but if you have an EU passport then I can’t see why you would need to do anything differently. If you get questioned why you don’t have it in the US then showing your EU passport should solve any confusion.

Ok, thank you for your reply. It makes sense)

Hi. I have two passports one British one Canada..I am currently living in India on a one year visitor visa,I have a visa on my Canada passport but I am applying for a retirement visa in thailand and want to do so on my British passport.Can I leave India with my British passport even though i have india visa on my Canada passport..

Hi Graham, When you leave India, you’ll need to show immigration your Canadian passport. When you enter Thailand, you should show immigration your British passport with your visa. Hope that helps.

Hi I’m travelling with NZ and UK passports. I am in Bolivia and both passports allow a stay up to 90 days per year. Last year I stayed for nearly 90 days on my NZ passport then travelled to Peru. I returned by flight and changed to my UK passport. No body asked if I had another passport and I got the entry stamp with no problems and stayed another 90 days. Do you know if I have broken any laws by staying for 90 days twice with separate passports?

Hi James! I’m sorry but I’m not sure of the specific laws in Bolivia. Sorry can’t be of more help!

My wife and have passports from Hong Kong due to our birth and America passports after we immigrated here 30 years ago. We are traveling to Russia from US with stopovers in Europe for both outbound and inbound for non visa related reasons. The names on my wife’s passports are not the same. One with her maiden name and one with only my last name. We plan to enter Russia with our HK passports since no visa required, and we booked our airline tickets with the names on the HK passports. For our return flights back to US with few days in Lisbon, we booked the tickets with particulars on our US passports. My wife now worries whether she will have problem when leaving Russia with air tickets on a different passport than the one for entry. Appreciate your insight and advice.

Hi Sing, in most countries this shouldn’t be an issue as long as you show immigration the passport you entered with when exiting the country. I’m not certain if this would be different in Russia – I suggest calling the airline and see if it’s an issue in Russia specifically.

Hi, currently located in UK with a UK passport and an Australian passport. Usually I will not use my Australia passport to travel unless going to Australia. However, with EU exit with no deal in 10days time, the advice was to make sure UK passport holder have 6mths validity on it. Mine was just under!!! I’m travelling in 3 weeks time to Italy for 2 weeks, and I do not want to pay extra to get a new passport. Do you think I could exit UK with UK passport, using my OZ passport to enter Italy (as will have more than 6mths validity), then depart Italy with Oz passport, and enter via immigration (as got kids with me, cannot use e-gate) with UK passport? And when I enter my info for the airline, I will use my Oz passport info, as there’s no check on departure at UK airport? Many many thanks!!

Hi Carla, What you’ve suggested doing with your Oz passport seems fine to me. If the UK doesn’t leave the EU at the end of the month then using your UK passport shouldn’t be an issue but given the uncertainity, it’s good to have a second option! 🙂

Thanks! still no clear sign of we leaving EU or not in 2 days time!! Anyway, I now need to enter advance passenger info for the airline in order to do online check in. I suppose I should use the Oz passport details since that’s most likely what I should and will use to enter Italy?

Yes, it shouldn’t a problem to use your Oz passport when travelling to Italy – have a great trip! 🙂

Hai Michael,

I have Malaysian and US passport. If I wanted to go to US, as per my understanding I will leave and come back to Malaysia by Malaysian passport and enter and exit US by US passport. The one that I’m curious is about the exit stamp from Malaysia when I came back from US. They will not asking where did I go? Where did I coming from? Thanks in advance

Hi Raeyzar, I, unfortunately, don’t really know about the Malaysian immigration rules. If both countries recognise dual citizenship it shouldn’t be an issue, however, I suggest trying to contact other people with dual citizenship in Malaysia to see how they get around this.

hi raeyzar, i have malaysia and us citizenship as well and was wondering if you still do and can compare notes about the experience? i’m planning to renew my malaysian and travel to malaysia soon. hope you don’t mind corresponding by anonymous account. thanks

Michael – Thanks for all the help. I’m amazed at how responsive you are! My question goes back to having differing surnames on passports. If I depart/fly using one name/passport (say passport X), can I still use the second other name passport (passport Y) at immigration of the arrival country? If airlines share passenger manifests with immigration, won’t this raise a red flag for them, since the name/citizenship of the second passport (passport Y) will not exist on the flight manifest? Thanks

No problem JP! I have two passports with different names and will often use a different passport on arrival and I have never had an issue with immigration. The only time I think this could be an issue is if you’re travelling to a country where they don’t allow or restrict entry to certain passports. In these situations, it’s probably best to depart on the passport that will be allowed to enter at the destination (however, the airline probably won’t let you board in this case anyway!)

Regarding different spellings in the two passports (“When booking your flight, you should ensure you enter the name as it appears in the passport for which you are purchasing and checking into your flight”):

How does this work with round-trip tickets between the two countries of citizenship, when it is required to use passport A (with spelling A) in one direction and passport B (with spelling B) in the other direction? For a round-trip ticket, the name has to be spelled the same way in both directions, so there will be a mismatch in the name on the ticket versus the passport in one direction or the other. How do you (and how do the airlines) deal with that?

I would suggest checking with the airline that you’re flying with. I don’t think it should be an issue in terms of immigration as you can still show the passport of the country when leaving and hopefully the airline will be satisfied if you show both passports upon checking in.

Hi Michael. A current question! We live in France (UK citizens and passports), I have recently received my Irish (ie European) passport. Are you saying I should enter my Irish passport number to leave France (and re-enter) and my British passport to enter and leave the UK? All such a mess and my husband will still have to queue in the “rest of the world” queue while I (hopefully!) sail through!!

Hi Patsy, Usually you should leave the country on whichever passport you entered on. At the moment while the UK is in the EU, I don’t think it matters which passport you use to leave France as you’re not stamped in when entering the country. Obviously, this could all change in a month’s time and I don’t think anyone really has a correct answer yet for what to do. Hope this helps 🙂

Hi Michael, I have dual citizenship Netherlands/Thai. Right now I’m in thailand I want to go back to Europe but my Netherlands passport cannot be use in thailand. how should I go back and do I need a visa for my thai paspoort to go to Paris ？

Hi Pramot! You should use your Thai passport when leaving Thailand and show your Dutch passport to immigration when you enter Europe – this will mean you don’t need to apply for any visa on your Thai passport!

Hi there, I have dual citizenship (Australian/Russian). My Russian passport on my maiden name, my Australian passport on my married name. If I am flying from Australia to Russia and back, how do i need to book return ticket, i mean what name should i use?

Hi, I’m not sure what Russia’s stance is on dual citizenship and whether their airline systems are linked to immigration which could complicate this situation. I think as you’re leaving from Australia you need to book with the name on your AU passport. However, I suggest contacting the airline (and possibly an immigration expert) to see if they think there would be any issues when you board your return flight from Russia.

Hi Michael, I am a dual citizen of Australia (born and living here) and Greece. I am wanting to live and work in the UK for several months – a year.

Would I leave/enter Australia and book flights on Australian passport and use my Greek passport for entry/exit immigration in UK? (I’m past age limit for a work Visa via Australia/Commonwealth; and I believe EU passport holders in UK don’t have to do anything until late 2020 or 21 re: Brexit.)

Thanks for the info on your blog! Very helpful.

Hi Sebastian, Yes, while the UK is in the EU you can book flights from Australia on your AU passport and enter the UK on your Greek passport and have working rights. However, as Brexit negotiations aren’t finalised yet there is still uncertainty as to what rights EU citizens will have once they leave the EU at the end of March – this should hopefully be clearer in the next couple of months!

Hello, I am a South Korean having British passport. South Korea does not allow a dual nationality. I flew to the UK with my Korean paasport and got 6 months visa on my Korean passport.

As 6 months passed, I flew out to Iceland for a week with a Korean passport. From the immigration entering to the UK, I presented a Korean but for some reason, the immigration officer did not gave me a visa, telling me that I should travel using my British passport.

With a Korean passport, I flew to Iceland, got a stamp, but flying back to the UK, I didn’t get a stamp…

On my Korean passport, I phisically flew to and flew out of Iceland but I have gone nowhere as British immigration did not stamp on my Korean passport.

Now, I have to go back to South Korea as a South Korean.

What should I do? Please help me I got a butterfly in my stomach…

Thank you in advance for your advice.

Hi Sen, I suggest you speak to an immigration expert in Korea who understands the implications of this. Unfortunately, I’m not sure if you’ll have any issues when returning to Korea. Hope it all works out well for you.

Hi Micheal,

I am dual Canadian with UK, I am flying to Thailand from Canada threw Hong Kong and the same route on the way back, I live in Canada full time. Should I bring both passports and which one is best to use Canadian or UK passport? Thank you Derek

Hi Derek, As both UK and Canada passports allow visa-free entry into Thailand & Hong Kong, you can enter those countries on either passport. As you’re flying in an out of Canada, it’s best to use your Canadian passport.

Hi Michael – Great article! My parents are dual citizens of US and Bosnia. They currently reside in the Balkans and will be traveling to US for visit. In terms of immigration, there should be no problems as they will carry both passports, but could you please provide your advice in terms of booking tickets and boarding (especially on the way back from US back to Europe). Thank you. Sasha

Hey Sasha! It shouldn’t matter which passport you book with, however, I would probably suggest booking using the US passport as there are no restrictions for US citizens travelling to Europe. As you’ve said, as long as they have both passports with them when checking in then there shouldn’t be any problems!

I have both UK and New Zealand passports. I wish to enter Australia using my New Zealand passport. When booking a return ticket from U.K. which passport should I register with the airline? On return to the U.K. Do I leave Australia on my UK passport?

Hi David, when arriving in Australia, show immigration your NZ passport. Likewise, when leaving Australia, exit on your NZ passport. It shouldn’t matter which passport you register with the airline in the UK – just make sure to show them your NZ passport if they ask how you’re entering Australia.

I just recently became a dual Australian / Canadian. The problem with this situation is that both countries require electronic travel authorization in order to be able to board a flight. So for example, if I was only Australian and I wanted to fly to Canada I would have had to get an ETA from Canada, which would be checked by the airline. If I was only Canadian I would need to do the same if I was going to Australia.

The problem now is that as a dual citizen I need to enter and exit each respective country on it’s own passport, but neither passport will have an ETA because you can’t get one as a citizen.

My understanding of how it’s supposed to happen, is that you check in and show the airline the passport of the country you are going to travel to, but at the exit immigration you show the passport of the country you’re currently in. So if I were to leave Australia I would check in to my flight on the Canadian passport and then at the exit gates I would show my Australian passport.

To the best of my knowledge, the airline should not be concerned with whether you are in the country legally or not – that’s not their job. Their only responsibility is to ensure that you are the the actual holder of the passport, and that you are authorised to travel to your intended destination.

There’s a lot of confusing information out there though and I could be mistaken – I’ve not had the opportunity to put this theory to the test yet.

This is a great discussion here and it’s all extra pieces to the puzzle!!!

Thanks for your comment Barry! In my experience, airlines in Australia don’t let you check into a flight with a different passport if you’re an Australian citizen (that scenario is actually what promoted me to write this article!). However, there is nothing wrong with booking with an Australian passport and then entering your destination country with a different passport.

I think the reason it was an issue in Australia is that the systems are more advanced and are linked to visa data. This is probably not the case in many countries and might not be an issue elsewhere.

I have dual citizenship, American and Peruvian. I am traveling to Russia from Los Angeles via Spain. My plan is to leave the US with my American passport and checking in Spain with my Peruvian passport. Then, fly to Russia and checking in with my Peruvian passport since visa is not required there for Peruvians. I will fly back to Spain from Russia using my Peruvian passport as well. Before returning to the US, should i leave Spain showing my American passport all the way for check-in and immigration? and, Is my travel plan actually making sense?

Hi Joseph! That plan makes sense to me! When leaving Spain, you should show Spanish immigration your Peruvian passport (as you entered Spain using that passport) and then when you return to the US, show immigration your US passport.

Thanks a lot, Michael!

Hello , it’s still all confusing to me about going home for a visit To NZ. I was born in NZ and immigrated to US and became a citizen in 1995. I let my NZ passport expire . I got a new one when I was there for s visit around 2010 . I’ve always gone home on US and was told once come on NZ passport . This is my concern . I always book a return ticket .fly from LAX. And I have booked with US passport . If I get to the airport and decide to use NZ passport ,and give it to Air NZ .. my ticket will say my name , NZ passport number . So when I go through the lines and it’s checked in the US as they scan it and give my US passport as I see you must leave and enter on US . Won’t that be a problem handing them the US passport with the ticket saying NZ passport number with my name ? And when I return leaving NZ I think you have to apply for the visa a few days before , but I won’t need one as I would have my US one but I’m not sure if NZ will let me change the details in their system as they will have NZ info not the US . I hope I have explained this . I get to the airport and always chicken out from trying to use my NZ passport as I think I won’t be able to get through the tsa or back in the USA. I don’t know now if USA has a passport check as well before I get on plane Thank you. Diane

Hi Diane! I think the best solution for you is to book your return ticket from the USA, using your US passport. Then when you arrive in NZ, show NZ immigration your NZ passport. When you arrive back in the US, simply show immigration your US passport. Hope that helps!

Thank you for replying , I had thought of doing that before. But what made me uncomfortable is I had heard that before the plane arrives the manifest with all the passengers and their countries is sent on to NZ, mine would say USA and on the plane the arrival card I never know what to ask for a visitor or a returning resident card . So Ive always done a visitor . I thought if I filled out a NZ citizen card and handed that in would they be running around looking for a American that boarded in LAX but didnt depart ? I know they have those self scan kiosks for NZ citzens there but I didnt use them . I know its foolish but I dont want to make a mistake . I also thought coming in as a US citizen ( i would bring my NZ passport ) if something happened and I needed to stay longer would they give me a clearance to stay longer than 90 days . I wish dual citzens could use the one passport. Thank you another question, how would I leave NZ ? My ticket would say US but I give immigration the NZ passport to check or the US ?

I don’t think you’ll have a problem with NZ immigration. There is nothing wrong with having US and NZ dual citizenship so when you show NZ immigration your NZ passport, they won’t care what details you put on your flight booking. On the off chance that there is any confusion, you can easily explain that you have dual citizenship. I’ve often booked tickets on one passport and then entered my arrival country using my other passport without any problem.

When you leave NZ, simply show NZ immigration your NZ passport and then when you land in the US, show immigration your US passport. My main advice would be to always travel with both so if there is ever any confusion you can easily explain the situation and show proof of your dual citizenship 🙂

Thanks for your great article Michael!

I’m a dual Australian/British citizen with two passports – the latter currently (!) marked EU. I live in Australia.

I understand about leaving and entering Australia on my Oz passport.

I’m doing a round trip soon: ex Oz, to Germany, Italy, the U.K. (first visit in 15 years) then back to Australia.

I plan to show my EU passport on arrival in Berlin and so on.

Can I enter/depart the U.K. on my British passport back to Australia when the airline (Etihad) has my Oz passport details registered? I’m unsure which passport to show at Etihad check in and immigration at Heathrow?

Hi Lisa – thanks for your comment! You shouldn’t have any problems if you enter the UK with your British passport. When checking into your flight, you should show whichever passport you’ve booked your ticket with. At Heathrow, you don’t actually pass through immigration so you won’t have to worry about that.

I’ve travelled back to Australia before from the UK booking with my Australian passport despite living here on my EU passport and haven’t had any problems! 🙂

I’m dual citizen both Somalia and Uganda, am planning to go to Somalia which passport do I use and which one do I show the airliner

Hi Zakaria! I’m not across the specific rules for Somalia but most countries require you to enter on that country’s passport if you are a citizen. I suggest contacting the embassy to confirm the rules for your specific situation.

Hi, I have two passports US and Indonesian. I’m currently studying in Paris and am wondering which way is best if I want to travel to London (Indonesians need a visa).

If you don’t need a visa for one of your passports then it’ll be a lot less hassle to travel to London on your US passport 🙂

Have you heard of anyone running into problems while doing this because they have two different names on their passports. The two different languages on a Russian and Yemeni passport mean that my name is quite different and one has my fathers surname and one has my mothers surname. Do you think this would cause problems with the systems being linked?

The names in my two passports also differ – I think the only issue is that if you book your plane ticket with one passport and then try to check in with your other passport, the airline won’t recognise your ticket. From an immigration perspective, it doesn’t really matter as you only ever show one passport to the border guard.

Thank you for the great information! I am a dual citizen of US/Canada and always travel with both passports. However, since I live in the US, I used my US passport to enter Europe about 2 months ago. Now that I’m here, I discovered I was eligible to apply for a Working Holiday visa to Germany with my Canadian passport, which means I can stay in Germany for a whole year. However, I am now concerned about my eventual flight back to the US, as I used it to check into Europe. If I use my US passport to leave, they will think I have illegally overstayed my 90 days, but if I use my Canadian, I will not have a record of entering (or of exiting on my US). Any advice you can offer, or direction to point me in would be greatly appreciated!

Hi Julia! You should exit the Schengen area before your current tourist visa expires on your US passport. Then re-enter Germany/Schengen Area on your Canadian passport with the working holiday visa. 🙂

Hi Michael, thanks for your response! Does that mean a full on flight back to the US? My concern is if I exit Schengen (London, etc.) then fly back into Europe with my Canadian passport, won’t my US passport still be “in” London?

You don’t need to return to the US – anywhere outside of the Schengen is fine! So if you fly to London, just show UK immigration your Canadian passport and that means you’ll enter as a Canadian rather than US citizen.

Sorry for the double post… ok, just to be clear, I am currently in Slovakia. I can get a cheap flight to London from Vienna, so I fly to London and I show my US passport to enter London. Then when I fly back to Germany from London, I show the exit border in london my US passport, which will officially “log me out” of London. Then when I enter Germany, I show them my Canadian Passport with the new Visa?

Yes that would work! Alternatively you could also enter London on your Canadian passport when you exit the Schengen the first time 🙂

Hi there, I have dual nationality, Israel and Poland. I live in the UK on my Polish passport which I sent to the DVLA to get my driving license sorted. I booked a trip to France and only have my Israeli passport now. I’m trying to figure out if I’m going to have any problems leaving England with a different passport from the one I entered with. Thank you so much for your help.

Hi Elita, You might raise some flags when leaving (many airports in UK you don’t actually go through immigration though!) however the bigger issue will be returning to the UK as you don’t have your Polish passport which is what you’re usually to legally live in the UK. I would suggest trying to get your Polish passport back before leaving 🙂

Hi, Thank you for the wonderful explanation with regards to dual nationality travel. I have some doubts to be cleared, please help me if you can.

I am a holder of Indian Passport and a Portuguese Passport, and I am currently residing in U.A.E on work visa on my Indian passport, and since my Visa is getting over the end of this month, I am planning to travel to UK directly from U.A.E with my Portuguese passport. (For UK – Visa free travel for Portuguese & Visa required for Indian Passport) Can I do the same without any problems?

If yes then under what passport should I book my ticket?

Also, what passport should I show to the respective Immigration and the airline?

Any guidance will be highly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Hi Mufeed, this shouldn’t be a problem! When you leave the UAE, show immigration your Indian passport and when you arrive in the UK, show immigration your Portuguese passport.

In my experience, you can book your ticket under either passport as long as you have both passports with you when travelling and can show proof to the airline that you can enter your destination country legally. Some airlines might have slightly different processes (e.g. their system linked to visas records) though so it might be best to contact the airline and confirm with them.

Hi there Have you heard any issues with using dual citizenship to bypass the 90/180 rule for staying in a country? Example using British passport and visa to arrive and stay 90 days. Leaving country, then returning in a week using USA passport with a different visa and passport # I can’t imagine they could match by name and DOB at the border

Hi Charles! I haven’t done this before – I think theoretically it’s possible but countries with more advanced computer systems might be able to match up your passports based on previous travels (e.g. if you’ve used one passport to exit a country and the next country using your other passport).

The problem is that most developed countries these days scan e-passports into a central database and link them with biometric data (from the passport photo and/or fingerprints) so they would know you were the same person with different passports and so were overstaying.

Unfortunately not. 🙁 Dual citizenship should not be such a contentious issue, should it?! At least not when the travel documents are valid and the individuals have no criminal records.

It really shouldn’t! Hopefully, it doesn’t cause any issues as a lot of the time countries don’t necessarily care about exit stamps from the previous country unless it’s a political issue.

What happens when you have two passports and one of the countries does not allow double citizenship while re-entaring the country which does not allow double citizenship and you do not have a stamp because on the other side you used your other passport…

Good question! Theoretically it shouldn’t matter but who knows how certain border guards would react. Is there anyway you can avoid this situation by using the same passport in both countries?

Good question! Theoretically, it shouldn’t matter but who knows how certain border guards would react. Is there any way you can avoid this situation by using the same passport in both countries?

Hi Michael! I’m a Chinese citizen currently studying in the UK on a student visa. I’m planning a trip to Switzerland soon. I’m wondering whether I could leave England with my New Zealand passport (Otherwise, I would have to get a Schengen visa for my Chinese passport in the UK) and re-enter England with my Chinese passport . There is no departing immigration in airports in England so the only place I can show my passport is at the airline check-in. Do I have to show both passports at the airline check-in?

Or is there any way I could travel with both passports? Thank you so much!

Hi Julia! I don’t see any problem with this – even if there is UK immigration, you can show your UK visa when leaving and then enter Switzerland on your NZ passport. I would keep both passports with you when travelling so you can prove entry and exit.

Just a short note about dual passports. I have a Chilean passport…and my name in that is the Hispanicised version of the name in my UK passport. The UK has recently – 2017 – decreed that anyone with multiple ID’s or passports, is obliged to ensure the next time they renew their UK passport, that the names in ALL these documents are the same. So, in my case, I will be obliged to change the names in one of my passports….by deed poll its easy enough in the UK, but in Chile it would present a bureaucratic nightmare. Maybe other countries don’t have this policy.

Thanks for sharing! I also have different versions of my name in both passports however my second passport has a translation that matches my Australian name on the page opposite the photo ID. Maybe see if that’s possible to do for one of your passports?

Ha, that’s interesting. In my case, the UK will in ‘ exceptional circumstances ‘ allow the use of the phrase ‘ also known as ‘ , followed by the alias. But my circumstance is apparently unexceptional!

I have a conundrum: I have a Chilean and a British passport. I plan an overland trip to Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, and Romania. I will fly to Georgia, ( which does not require a visa from Brits ) and then travel overland to Russia. Russian charges Brits £140 for a Visa, but does not charge Chilean passport holders any visa charge ( only an admin fee ). Ukraine does not require a visa from a Brit. Nor does Romania….my next stop. The I will fly back to UK from Romania. Can anyone out there tell me in simple steps, the easiest and hassle free way of doing the trip!

Hi Tim, I would just show whichever passport you want to use in each country when you enter it. Overland border crossings will have two checkpoints so I don’t see any reason why you couldn’t use your UK passport in Georgia, Ukraine & Romania and then enter Russia on your Chilean passport.

Michael – I appreciate you taking the time to reply. Its as I thought. As you say, in theory, each crossing has an EXIT and an ENTRY – with a little ‘no-mans land ‘ in between! I show the UK passport as I leave Georgia, and show the Chilean one as I enter Russia. And yet…..! When I entered Montenegro from Croatia last year, at a tiny little border crossing near the sea, there was only one person….I guess what his left hand did was unknown to what his right hand did!! He was managing both exits from Croatia and entries to Montenegro! Fingers crossed it works…. PS – I enjoy your site and blog.

No problem Tim and thanks for reading! Funnily enough, the same thing has happened to me in the Balkans as well 🙂

Hopefully it all goes smoothly – I’d be surprised if Russia doesn’t have its own border guards given they have very different visa requirements to its neighbours!

I have a French passport and a Philippine Passport. Now, my Philippine passport is about to expire and I should renew it as soon as possible. I noticed that in the renewal there’s an option to declare I have another passport, But my father said I should not declare it because I’ll only be paying taxes and it doesn’t change anything. What are the advantages/disadvantages of declaring it? Also, is it illegal to not declare it?

P.S. The french embassy don’t mind that I have another passport and they did not ask me when getting french passport.

Hi Ger, Unfortunately I don’t know the details about Philippines tax system or their rules about dual citizenship. Maybe consider contacting a taxation lawyer?

Thanks for the interesting article. I will be returning to live in South Africa from the UK as I hold dual citizenship by birth and parents. My question is – do I need to apply for a SA passport or is it fine to stick with one I.e. my British Passport…? Thanks in advance.

Hi Amy, I think you will need your SA passport to re-enter South Africa. Otherwise, when you try to enter on your British passport you will only be able to stay for a limited amount of time.

I’m currently traveling and arrived in Spain yesterday. I have dual citizenship (US and Spain). I entered the frequent flyer number which saved the details of my Spanish passport on my reservation for my US departure. Will I need a visa and/or return flight when leaving Spain back to US?

Hi Bianca, you need to enter the US on your US passport (which you should show to immigration) In terms of boarding your flight the airline should let you board if you show your US passport as proof that you can enter the US. If you’re worried, I suggest calling the airline to confirm that this will be fine for them. 🙂

Hi Michael! Im planning on traveling to Russia from the US through Italy and spend 1-2 days there. I am a bit confused about which passport I should use to purchase tickets and to show at the customs. I have dual citizenship – Russian/American. I know that with the US passport you don’t need a visa to Italy but with Russian you do. Should I use my American passport to purchase tickets? Will I have any issues entering and leaving Russia if my tickets were purchased using the American passport? Thank you.

Hi Nadya, I suggest contacting the airline to confirm that it will be okay. My gut says that you should be able to book on your US passport and then just show your Russian passport to the airline if they require proof of you being able to enter Russia. From an immigration perspective, just make sure to show your Russian passport in Russia.

I’m a dual citizen of Australia/UK (I’m living in Australia) and wanting to go to Hong Kong for a holiday. I will of course leave and return to Australia on an Australian passport but am I able to enter and leave HK on a British passport? Also, with regards to airlines wanting passport details, which passport should I give them? When I check in my luggage, do I show them the passport that I entered on the airline/travel website?

Hi Declan, thanks for your comment! When flying out of Australia as an AU citizen, you should use your Australian passport on your airline ticket & when checking in your luggage. When entering HK just show immigration your British passport if you want to enter as a UK citizen.

My sister who lives in Australia was going on holiday to Canada, she has dual nationality, Australia/United Kingdom. When she arrived at the airport she was told by the Canadian airline that she had to have both passports with her. She couldn’t see any reason why she would want her British passport with her and said so. She was then told that she would have to go home and get it, by this time she was getting upset as she lives 1 and a half hours from the airport. Eventually they got a more senior person and agreed to let her just have her Australian passport,she was in tears as she was going on a cruise and coach trip which had cost a lot of money. Surely this cannot be correct and if it is it is ridiculous.

Sorry to hear your sister had to go through that! I agree that technically there is no need for airlines to see both passports however I usually recommend travelling with both passports as airlines can make their own rules on what ID is required. Glad to hear it worked out in the end!

Thanks for the reply Michael. We got lucky since we just received his Canadian passports.

Very useful article. My son is a dual citizen (Canada/France) leaving in the US on a H4 visa. His Canadian passport, which is tied to his US visa, is expired so we sent it to Canada for a new passport. We need to travel soon to France, but we have not yet received his old and new Canadian passports. We are planning to leave the US and enter France with his French passport but I’m worried that this will raise flag at check-in since we never enter US on his French passport. While in France, we are planning to get old and new Canadian passport send to us, so he can re-enter US visa the Canadian passport that contains the visa. Any feedback on this issue? Thanks

Hi Patrick, I haven’t travelled in the US extensively, however, I imagine you could have problems leaving the country if you can’t prove that you legally entered the US and I wouldn’t suggest risking it. Can you pay extra to have your Canadian passport sent back quicker?

I am a dual citizen (Hong Kong SAR/British Citizen) living in the Hong Kong SAR and will be flying up to Russia for traveling with a Transit in United Kingdom (London). I enter United Kingdom with my British passport, which requires Visa for entering Russia, whereas HKSAR Passport is Visa-free to enter Russia for 14 Days. How should I do for checking in the following flights? 1. Hong Kong – London 2. London – St.Petersburg 3. Moscow – London 4. London – Hong Kong Info: Hong Kong immigration requires Hong Kong Identity cards (a prerequisite for holding HKSAR passport, with Right of Abode in Hong Kong) to enter / depart Hong Kong Also, can a through check-in at Hong Kong to be performed with 2 passports for Flights 1 & 2?

Hi Derek, the key thing is make sure that you use the right passport when clearing immigration in each country. So when entering the UK, use your British passport and then when entering Russia use your Hong Kong passport etc.

For Flight 1, i think you should check in with your HK passport and then clear immigration in London with your British passport. Flight 2 is tricky as you should probably check in with your British passport as you’re in London however they will require proof that you can legally enter Russia (I would clarify with the airline that showing the HK passport is sufficient)

For Flight 3, check in with your HK passport and clear immigration in London with your British passport. For flight 4, check in with your British passport and clear immigration in HK with your HK passport.

I am a dual citizen (Canada/United States) living in the US and will be driving up to Canada to visit family before flying from Toronto to Scotland. I will be travelling with my girlfriend, she is a US citizen. I enter Canada with my Canadian passport and she with her US passport. The part I’m not sure of, is leaving Canada and entering Scotland, and then leaving Scotland and entering Canada. I was planning on travelling on my Canadian passport and just going through the other line (for non-citizens) with my girlfriend when we returned to Canada. Is this the proper plan or should I be doing something else?

Hi Kevin! I don’t think it matters whether you use your Canadian or US passport in the UK (I assume both have visa free entry!) I’m not sure how the lines work in Canada but in other countries the citizen’s line is faster however you can use any line.

Im a japanese and filipino citizen. Im flying to japan using my japanese passport. Is that okay? Or i should have use my philippine passport flying to japan?

Usually, if you’re a citizen of a country, you need enter on the passport of that country. I assume it’ll be the same situation for Japan 🙂

Use your japanese passport but show your fil passport to phil immigration as well. When u reached japan you dont need to show you fil. Passport.

my daughter has dual citizenship, British and filipino. i had to cancel her flight to uk as she could not find her dual citizenship certificate and her philippine passport is expired. did i do the right thing or i should have just let her travel?

She would need a valid passport to enter the UK. I think given she’s British she needs to enter on her British passport however it’s best to check with immigration 🙂

I’m sorry if this isn’t correct,

But isn’t it the other way around? For example, if I am flying from Paris to New York and I am a dual citizen of France and the United States, I will book the flight on the number of my US passport and show it at the Check In, and then when I arrive at the exit immigration I will show them my French passport?

In my experience, the airline’s systems can be linked to visa systems so if you book a flight out on a passport which hasn’t entered the country it might raise some flags when you check in. As long as you have both passports with you I don’t think it should be an issue either way when you check in.

I have both Australian and US passports. I use the US passport to book airline tickets and to check in at the airport when travelling to US. This is because Australian citizens need visa to go to US. Checking in with my US passport does not need US visa. I use my Australian passport when exiting Australia. Entering US I use my US passport. Coming back to Australia I use my Australian passport for entry.

Yes. The airline makes a list of the passengers and sends it to the DESTINATION immigration. It is also responsible for ensuring that all passengers have the right VISA to enter the country they are flying to. So… in you case at he check-in you show the US passport. As you exit Paris immigration you show the French passport and at your destination you show again the US passport.

I’m curious about traveling on dual passports. I’ll be going from Canada to Georgia with British/Canadian. I was intending to use my Canadian passport to get to Georgia. But I’ve decided to visit my parents in Britain on the way back to Canada. I’ve been told I must use my Canadian passport for Canada and I must use my British passport for Britain. The airline accepts only one passport. I’ve also been warned by relatives that I shouldn’t use my Canadian passport in Georgia, I should use my British because allegedly, if there’s a problem, Britain wouldn’t aid me if I’m not using a British passport.

Who/what to believe? I’ve been getting a lot of conflicting information.

You’re right that you should use your Canadian passport in Canada and British passport in the UK. Even if put the Canadian passport on your airline ticket then isn’t anything stopping you from giving immigration your British passport when you land.

I would enter Georgia on whichever passport you feel most comfortable on. I don’t think either countries require a visa for Georgia so if it puts your relatives at ease then you can enter using your British passport 🙂

I have old & new passport but my employment visa is issued by old passport number so will i be able to clear the emmigration department?

Hi Rajesh, I suggest you contact the visa department for the country that issued you your visa and ask them. 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• United Kingdom Tourism
• United Kingdom Hotels
• United Kingdom Bed and Breakfast
• United Kingdom Vacation Rentals
• Flights to United Kingdom
• United Kingdom Restaurants
• Things to Do in United Kingdom
• United Kingdom Travel Forum
• United Kingdom Photos
• All United Kingdom Hotels
• United Kingdom Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in United Kingdom
• United Kingdom
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Passport validity for UK travel from USA - United Kingdom Forum

• Europe    
• United Kingdom (UK)    

Passport validity for UK travel from USA

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Europe forums
• United Kingdom forum

Also, we only booked one way tickets so far because we're not sure how long we would stay yet (few weeks), but would this be an issue for proving that we won't stay beyond the passport expiration time?

<< we only booked one way tickets so far ...... would this be an issue >> potentially an issue that UK Border Force / Immigration will question you about when arriving in UK (that's if Virgin have let you fly with them)

Deleted – just realise your booking one-way tickets. Very bad idea. There is no way that they can link the duration of your visit to the validity of the passport.

Can you not renew her passport early?

Yes, I can purchase the return tickets in advance. Just wanted to check if it was necessary first, which it sounds like l definitely should. I won't have time to renew the passport before we leave.

'Which one is correct?' The UK website. I have spoken to UK Border Force agents at Heathrow airport about this for those holding Canadian passports, and I suspect the same for those with US documents, that the passport must be valid for the duration of the stay in the UK. I've travelled to the UK with a Canadian passport having only three months' validity remaining and had no problems entering at Heathrow.

Should VS ground agents question your daughter's passport, ask them to refer to Timatic, which indicates Document Validity: Passports and other documents accepted for entry must be valid for the period of intended stay.

https://www.emirates.com/ca/english/before-you-fly/visa-passport-information/ This is a link from EK but Timatic is the IATA source used by carriers.

As you hold US passports you should be eligible to use the e-gates at Heathrow and may not speak to a UK border agent unless you're asked for details of your PLF documents. Nonetheless, single tickets rather than a return may be a bigger concern than passport validity.

Update: we had no problems with the passport validity getting into the UK. At the passport control, they asked us how long we planned to stay, but didn't ask for any proof, although we did get return tickets just in case.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Stay in town for Viaduct? 4:17 pm
• Best way to get to the Castle 4:13 pm
• Day trip overnight to fire coast 4:07 pm
• Where to stay ? 4:09 pm
• 24 hour parking 4:06 pm
• Evening walk through Shambles? 4:05 pm
• Best way to travel back/forth from Anfield to City Centre 3:59 pm
• An Armadale Stay 4:01 pm
• Concerned re changing trains at Birmingham New Street 4:00 pm
• booking train fare 4:00 pm
• Area around Iverness/Loch Ness 3:58 pm
• Hotel in Belfast 3:56 pm
• accessibilty on underground - be careful 3:55 pm
• Lodging outside of Edinburgh 3:54 pm
• Hotel Vat Refund 5 replies
• McLaren F1 factory in Woking 2 replies
• Bus or Train from Heathrow to Cardiff 4 replies
• Best Time to Visit the Britain in 2012 16 replies
• London tours - comparing Evan Evans, Premium, and Golden 7 replies
• Places to visit between London and Edinburgh?? 12 replies
• Visiting The UK With Old Criminal Record 20 replies
• Green Motion car rental deception 39 replies
• 11 days in UK : Help with itinerary 29 replies
• Cheapest place to fly into in the UK from the USA 6 replies
• Where is the best place to post a question about visiting England ?
• Driving in the UK
• Accessible countryside and coast for disabled

How to avoid getting caught out by 10-year-passport rule when travelling to Europe

If travelling to the eu, your passport must be less than 10 years old when you leave and be valid for three months after your return date.

UK holidaymakers are being warned to avoid getting caught out by a post-Brexit passport rule that could hamper EU travel plans.

Until 2018, British passport holders could have unspent time on an old passport – up to 9 months – added to a renewal.

However, after Brexit, unspent time added to a 10-year passport has not been considered valid for entry to the EU.

Home Office data suggests that 32 million people had applied for passports which, if granted would be over 10 years old.

Here’s everything you need to know about the changes, how to avoid being caught out, and what options you have if you are.

What’s different now?

UK passport holders used to be able to carry over another nine months on a passport that had been issued 10 years ago for entry into the EU .

However, following Brexit , the EU does not accept UK passports past the 10-year expiry date.

Issues arise when travelers may enter their passport details with the airline but are not turned away from their flight until they’re boarding at the gate, when it becomes difficult to change your flight or receive any compensation for the missed flight.

i ‘s Travel Editor, Sophie Lam , said: “Validity for British passport-holders entering the Schengen area changed after Brexit.

“After initial uncertainty and confusion, the Foreign Office updated its passport advice in May 2022, clarifying the requirements for entry to Europe and bringing them into line with those of the European Commission.

“Thousands of British travellers have been turned away by airlines and cross- Channel transport providers due to their passports failing to meet EU requirements.”

How do I avoid getting caught out?

To avoid being caught out by the rule and turned away from boarding at the airport, you should make sure to check your passport’s issue and expiry date when booking your holiday.

EU requirement state that a British passport must meet the following requirements (independent of one another) for entry to the EU:

• Passport issued 10 years before the date of entry
• Passport has three months left before expiry date on the date of return to the UK

Seven of the most scenic rail journeys in Europe

So, as well as being issued less than 10 years before your departure date, you should also ensure your passport is valid for three months after your planned return date.

Rory Boland , travel editor at Which? told the BBC : “The ’10-year-rule’ is a problem that continues to catch people out.

“What’s really important is that you check your passport validity and expiry date when booking your holiday.

“Not when you go to check-in, and certainly not when you travel to the airport, because that’s when people are continually finding that their passport is out of date and it’s often then too expensive, and too complicated to save their holiday.”

How do I renew my passport?

You can renew your passport either online or in person.

If you’d like to apply online , you can do so through the portal on the UK Government website . You’ll need an updated digital photo of yourself and be prepared to send in your passport.

The online application currently has a fee of £82.50.

You can also apply in person at a Post Office . You’ll need to bring your old passport and two printed updated photos. Applying in person has a higher fee of £93.

However, the Home Office is seeking approval to increase fees for both new passports and renewals from 11 April – a second price increase in 14 months, after a nine per cent hike in February 2023.

It would see the cost of a standard online application made from within the UK rise to £88.50 while an under 16s passport is set to jump from £53.50 to £57.50.

UK postal applications, meanwhile, will increase to £100 for adults and £69 for children, with overseas applications rising to £101 for adults and £65.50 for children online, or to £112.50 for adults and £77 for children by post.

'The clock is ticking': Why new post-Brexit border rules are fraught with issues

Once the materials have been received by the HM Passport Office, the wait time begins.

As of March 2024, the typical wait time is three weeks. You should apply well in advance to make sure you have your passport ahead of your trip.

If you have any visas in your old passport that are still valid, you can use them if you travel with both your old and new passport.

i ‘s Sophie Lam said: “HMPO updated its guidance for passport application turnaround times in autumn 2023, reducing it from 10 weeks to three for an adult renewal.

“However, in practice applications are being processed much more swiftly, taking on average nine days according to crowd-sourced site passportwaitingtime.co.uk .”

What can I do if I’m turned away at the airport?

Not much, unfortunately.

Airlines UK, the trade body for the UK’s registered airline companies, has said there was no guarantee that potentially invalid passport details would be picked up in advance, adding that airlines do provide reminders and links.

It said it was the responsibility of the person travelling to ensure they have a valid travel document.

If you are turned away at the airport, you would not be covered and would not be entitled to your money back.

Gemma Brown, head of commercial and travel expert at Travel Republic, said: “If travellers make it all the way to their boarding gate without checking, airlines can refuse those holding passports that were issued over 10 years ago. In this instance, passengers should be aware that denied boarding is reasonable due to inadequate travel documentation.

“The likelihood is that travel insurance providers would not cover any costs associated with invalid or expired passports, as it’s down to the traveller to triple check their documentation is correct.

“Our advice would be to ensure that your passport is within the 10 year issue date and is valid for at least six months from the date of departure to ensure you will be accepted into most countries.

“Regardless of passport rules, it’s important for all travellers to research the country they plan to visit and ensure they know what travel documentation is required upon entering and leaving. You can find foreign travel advice on the Government website to make sure you have everything covered.”

Most Read By Subscribers

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

United States travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: March 28, 2024 07:53 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, united states - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in the United States

Back to top

Border with Mexico

Criminal incidents associated with drug trafficking are more frequent at the border with Mexico, in the following states:

If crossing the U.S.– Mexico border by car:

• remain extremely vigilant
• only use officially recognized border crossings
• avoid travelling at night

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, particularly in urban centres and tourist locations.

• Don’t leave bags or valuables unattended in parked cars, especially rental vehicles, even in trunks
• Ensure that your belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times

Violent crime

Within large urban areas, violent crime more commonly occurs in poor neighbourhoods, particularly from dusk to dawn. It often involves intoxication.  Incidents of violent crime are mainly carried out by gangs or members of organized crime groups but may also be perpetrated by lone individuals. Although violent crime rarely affects tourists:

• be mindful of your surroundings at all time
• verify official neighbourhood crime statistics before planning an outing
• if threatened by robbers, stay calm and don’t resist

Crime Data Explorer – Federal Bureau of Investigation

Gun violence

The rate of firearm possession in the US is high. It’s legal in many states for US citizens to openly carry firearms in public.

Incidences of mass shootings occur, resulting most often in casualties. Although tourists are rarely involved, there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. 

Familiarize yourself on how to respond to an active shooter situation.

Active Shooter Event Quick Reference Guide - Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency

Home break-ins

Canadians living in holiday homes have been the victims of break-ins and burglary.

Make sure you lock windows and doors securely at night and when you are away.

Common criminal strategies

Be on alert for robbery ploys targeting visitors.

Some criminals on highways target travellers leaving airports or other tourist destinations. They signal tourists to stop due to an issue with their vehicle. They then wait for the driver to pull over or exit the car before grabbing exposed valuables. Criminals may also throw items at the windshield, obscuring the view of the road and forcing the driver to pull over. 

If you’re the victim of such a ploy:

• avoid pulling over on the side of the road
• put on your hazard lights and slowly drive to a gas station, police station or other safe and populated area

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs, including debit card cloning. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, and hotels 

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) maintains a public alert system on terrorism to communicate information about terrorist threats.

National Terrorism Advisory System  – U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Hiking and mountaineering

If you intend on hiking, backpacking or skiing:

• never practise these activities alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• obtain detailed information on hiking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails or slopes
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you are properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the US authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

You must provide proof of your Canadian citizenship upon entry to the U.S. There are several documents that can satisfy this requirement.

Travel by air

Canadian citizens travelling by air to the United States must present one of the following documents:

• a passport, which must be valid for the duration of their stay
• a valid NEXUS card, used at self-serve kiosks at designated airports

This requirement applies to all Canadian citizens, including children, travelling by air to or even just transiting through the United States.

Useful links

• Canadian passports
• Mobile Passport Control app – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Travel by land or water

As per the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), Canadian citizens aged 16 years and older must present one of the following documents when entering the United States by land or water:

• a valid passport
• a Trusted Traveler Program card
• an enhanced driver’s licence (EDL) or enhanced identification card (EIC) from a province or territory where a U.S. approved EDL/EIC program has been implemented
• a Secure Certificate of Indian Status

The WHTI-compliant document you choose to use must be valid for the duration of your stay.

Canadian citizens aged 15 years and under entering the United States by land or water require one of the following documents:

• an original or a copy of a birth certificate
• an original Canadian citizenship certificate
• Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI ) – U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Trusted Traveler Programs  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Enhanced Driver’s Licenses: What Are They?  – U.S. Department of Homeland Security
• Apply for a Secure Certificate of Indian Status  – Indigenous Services Canada

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.

• Foreign representatives in Canada

Additional information at borders

Customs officials may ask you to provide your address while in the United States (including Puerto Rico). Customs Border Protection (CBP) officers may also ask for:

• evidence of residential, employment or educational ties to Canada
• proof that the trip is for a legitimate purpose and is of a reasonable length
• proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay     

Dual citizens

Although U.S. authorities don’t formally require dual nationals to carry both a U.S. and a Canadian passport, carrying both documents as proof of citizenship may facilitate your entry into the United States and your return to Canada.

• Travelling as a dual citizen
• Dual Nationality  – U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs

Canadian visitors can usually stay in the United States for 6 months without a visa. You must declare your intended duration of stay upon entry into the United States.

In most circumstances, Canadian citizens don’t require visitor, business, transit or other visas to enter the United States from Canada but there are some exceptions.

Canadians Requiring Visas  – U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada

Canadian permanent residents

Canadian permanent residents may need a non-immigrant visa to enter the United States.

You must obtain this visa from the U.S. authorities before entering the country. You must also have a valid passport from your country of citizenship.

Cross U.S. Borders – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Visa Waiver Program

If you are a citizen of a country that is part of the visa waiver program (VWP), you don’t need a visa to enter the U.S. for stays up to 90 days. Instead, you must obtain pre-travel authorization via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior your departure.

• Visa Waiver Program  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)  – U.S. Department of Homeland Security

You must also carry proof of Permanent Resident Status in Canada upon re-entry into Canada.

U.S. permanent residents

Canadians who are permanent residents of the United States must present a valid U.S. permanent resident card upon entry.

International travel as a U.S. Permanent Resident  – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

First Nations and Native Americans born in Canada

Members of Canada’s First Nations and Native Americans born in Canada may freely enter the United States for the purposes of employment, study, retirement, investing, or immigration.

• Entry and exit for First Nations and Native Americans  – U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada
• Green Card for an American Indian Born in Canada – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Working in the United States

Most Canadian business travellers may apply for admission at a U.S. port of entry without first obtaining a non-immigrant visa. However, travellers entering the United States in certain business-related categories are required to present specific documents to establish eligibility for admission.

If you plan to work in the United States, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for specific requirements.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Studying in the United States

Canadian citizens don’t need visas to study or participate in a student exchange program in the United States. However, they need to be registered with SEVIS, a U.S. student tracking system. Students must present their registration form to CBP officers each time they enter the United States.

• SEVIS – U.S. Department of Homeland Security
• Canadian students  – U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada

Length of stay

If you wish to stay longer than 6 months, you must apply for an extension at the nearest U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office once you are in the United States and before the expiry of your initial authorized stay. Immigration officers may ask you to demonstrate that you are a temporary visitor in the United States.

The U.S. government strictly enforces immigration regulations. Remaining in the United States beyond your authorized period of stay can result in serious consequences such as detention or deportation.

There is no set period that you must wait to re-enter the United States after the end of your authorized stay. However, if a CBP officer suspects you are spending more time in the United States than in Canada, it will be up to you to prove to the officer that you are a temporary visitor, not a U.S. resident.

Extend your stay  –  U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Upon entry into the United States, non-U.S. citizens must provide biometrics, such as digital fingerprints and a photograph.

Most Canadian citizens are exempt from this requirement. However, it will apply to Canadian citizens who:

• need a visa or a waiver of ineligibility
• must obtain an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record form to document dates of entry and exit from the country

Random screenings of exempt Canadians have occurred at border crossings and airports. If you feel that your information has been wrongfully collected, you can address the issue directly with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

• Biometrics  – U.S. Department of Homeland Security
• Arrival/Departure Forms: I-94 and I-94W – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Electronic devices

U.S. border agents are entitled to search your electronic devices, such as your phones, computers or tablets, when you are entering the United States. They don’t need to provide a reason when requesting a password to open your device.

If you refuse, they may seize your device. The border agent could also delay your travel or deny entry if you are not a U.S. citizen.

Before crossing the border, put your device in airplane mode to ensure remote files don’t get downloaded accidentally.

Inspection of Electronic Devices  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Preclearance

The preclearance service provides clearance for entry into the United States for persons and their luggage at a Canadian preclearance airport before departure instead of on arrival in the United States.

When using U.S. preclearance facilities at a Canadian airport, you must meet U.S. entry requirements. You will be interviewed by a U.S. preclearance officer. They are authorized to inspect your luggage and can refuse you entry into the United States.

It’s an offence under Canada’s Preclearance Act to knowingly make a false or deceptive statement to a preclearance officer.  While you are in a preclearance area, you are subject to Canadian law, including:

• the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
• the Canadian Bill of Rights
• the Canadian Human Rights Act
• Canada’s Preclearance Act
• Canadian criminal law

You may withdraw your request to enter the United States and leave the preclearance area at any time unless a U.S. preclearance officer suspects on reasonable grounds that you have made a false or deceptive statement or obstructed an officer. The officer may then detain you for violations of Canadian law.

Preclearance Locations  –  U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Criminal Record

If you have a criminal record, no matter the severity or the date of the offence, you may be refused entry to the United States. You may also experience problems when travelling through U.S. airport facilities. A pardon for an offence issued by Canadian authorities is not recognized under U.S. law to enter the United States.

If you are ineligible to enter the United States, you may apply directly to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for a temporary waiver of inadmissibility via the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Canadian citizens may also apply at land borders.

U.S. ports of entry are computerized and connected to a centralized database. Information is readily available on criminal convictions in both Canada and the United States. Even though you may have entered the United States without hindrance in the past, you could run into difficulty if your record shows a criminal conviction or a previous denial of entry. Attempting to gain entry without a waiver could result in several weeks of detention and a permanent ban from entering the United States.

• Applying for Waiver  – Person entering into the United States with criminal record or overstay – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Previous use of cannabis, or any substance prohibited by U.S. federal laws, could mean that you are denied entry to the U.S. If you attempt to enter the U.S. for reasons related to the cannabis industry, you may be deemed inadmissible.

• Cannabis and international travel
• Cannabis and the U.S. – U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Canada
• Laws pertaining to cannabis

Boating in U.S. waters

Operators of small pleasure vessels arriving in the United States from a foreign port must report their arrival to U.S. Customs and Border Protection immediately for face-to-face inspection at a designated reporting location.

Some exceptions apply, including under Nexus Marine.

Pleasure Boat Reporting Requirements  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

You must have a valid Canadian passport to take a cruise from the United States. Some of the countries you visit will not permit entry without a passport. A passport is also important to re-enter the United States at the end of the cruise.

Ship authorities might retain your passport during the cruise, in accordance with their own administrative regulations and to facilitate clearance with U.S. Immigration.

If your passport is kept:

• obtain a receipt
• ensure you recuperate your passport at the end of the cruise
• always keep a photocopy of your passport with you

When examined at a port of entry, cats and dogs must show no signs of diseases communicable to humans. If there is evidence of poor animal health, you may need to get your pet examined by a licensed veterinarian, at your own expense. U.S. authorities may also require a health certificate.

Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before entry, except for puppies under 3 months of age. Vaccination against rabies is not required for cats.

Other animals are also subject to controls or quarantine requirements.

Bringing Pets and Wildlife into the United States  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Children and travel

Canadian citizens under 19 travelling with a school or other organized group under adult supervision must travel with written consent from their own parent/guardian.

• Children: Traveling into the U.S. as Canadian Citizen  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Consent letter for travel with children
• Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country. Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

• Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
• One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Zika virus may be a risk in some areas of the United States. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s webpage Areas at Risk for Zika  for the most up-to-date information on Zika risk in the United States.

During your trip to a Zika risk area:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to areas where Zika is a risk with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel to these areas.

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy .

• In this country, risk of  dengue  is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions webpage on Dengue in the U.S. States and Territories for the most up-to-date information on dengue outbreaks in the United States
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent. Service is available throughout the country. However, treatment costs are expensive.

All hospitals must accept and treat emergencies, regardless of the person’s ability to pay. Clients will, however, be charged for all services rendered. Foreign visitors without travel health insurance will have to pay out of pocket for their medical treatment.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

There are restrictions and prohibitions on the import of certain prescription drugs into the United States.

Some medication that can be purchased over-the-counter in Canada is restricted to prescription-only status in the United States.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication
• Ensure to have a physician’s note explaining your medical condition, if applicable

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Laws vary greatly from state to state. Consult the website of the state you wish to visit prior to arrival.

Penalties and transfer of offenders

A serious violation of the law may lead to a jail sentence or, in some states, a death sentence. Canadian citizenship confers no immunity, special protection or rights to preferential treatment.

If a jail sentence is imposed, it will be served in a U.S. prison, unless a request for a transfer to a Canadian prison is approved by the United States and Canada. Both countries have signed a treaty that permits a Canadian imprisoned in the United States to request a transfer to complete the sentence in a Canadian prison.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Although the possession of cannabis is legal in some U.S. states, it remains illegal under U.S. federal laws in any form and quantity, making it illegal to bring across the Canada-U.S. border.

Don’t attempt to cross the Canada-U.S. border with any amount of cannabis in any form, even if you are traveling to a U.S. state that has legalized possession of cannabis. If you do so, you can expect legal prosecution and fines, and possibly jail time.

• Entry/exit requirements pertaining to cannabis

Prescription medication

Personal medication may be subject to U.S. drug importation laws and regulations.

In general, personal importation of a 90-day supply of medication is allowed. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has absolute discretion to allow or not your Canadian-purchased medication into the United States.

When taking any prescription medication to the United States, it’s important to:

• take only the quantity that you would normally take for the number of days you will be in the United States, plus an additional week’s worth
• pack medicines in their original packaging with the dispensary label intact that shows your name and other pertinent information such as the drug’s name, dosage and DIN (drug identification number)
• keep a duplicate of your original prescription, listing both the generic and trade names of the drug
• have a physician’s note explaining your condition and the reason for you to be legitimately carrying syringes, if applicable

Prohibited and restricted items  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

2SLGBTQI+ travellers 

Some states have enacted laws and policies that may affect 2SLGBTQI+ persons. Check relevant state and local laws.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the United States .

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of the United States , our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

• General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and the United States.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the United States, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the American court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in the United States to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Expedited removal

U.S. Customs and Border Protection can bar non-citizens from the United States for five years if, in their judgment, the individuals presented false documentation or misrepresented themselves. Lying to a customs official is a serious offence.

There is no formal appeal process under expedited removal. However, if you believe the law has been misapplied in your case, you can request a supervisory review by writing to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services district director responsible for the port of entry where the decision was made.

Find a USCIS office  – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Imports and exports

Contact the specific U.S. Customs and Border Protection office at the Canada/U.S. border crossing you are planning to use before starting your trip for the latest information on allowances and restrictions on bringing items into the United States. These change frequently.

Declare all items at your point of entry.

Contact information for USCBP  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Travel to Cuba from the United States

Existing U.S. sanctions restrict travel between the United States and Cuba. Tourists may not travel between the two countries. However, you may go to Cuba from the United States on other types of travel, if you meet certain requirements.

Cuba sanctions  – U.S. Department of the Treasury

You can drive in the United States if you have a valid Canadian driver’s license.

Traffic laws can vary from state to state.

Automobile insurance

Many states have mandatory automobile insurance requirements, and many require motorists to carry appropriate proof of insurance. Each state’s motor vehicles department can give you more specific information.

If you are in the United States and wish to drive to Mexico in your personal vehicle, you may need to purchase liability insurance and additional auto insurance.

• Foreign Nationals Driving in the U.S.  – U.S. government
• States’ motor vehicle department  – U.S. government
• Canadian Automobile Association
• American Automobile Association
• Road safety risks when travelling by land to Mexico
• Travel advice for Mexico

Hitchhiking

Never cross the border with a hitchhiker or as a hitchhiker. Though you may not be carrying anything illegal, the hitchhiker or driver might be, and you could be implicated.

Be equally careful about who and what you carry in your vehicle. As the driver, you could be held responsible for the misdeeds and belongings of your passengers, even if you were unaware of the problem.

The currency in the United States is the U.S. dollar (USD).

Canadian currency and personal cheques from Canadian banks are not widely accepted. Most banking transactions require a U.S. bank account.

There’s no limit to the amount of money that you may legally take into or out of the United States. However, you must declare to U.S. Customs and Border Protection:

• if you carry more than US$10,000 (in cash, cheque, money order,      travellers’ cheque or any other convertible asset) into or out of the      United States
• if you will receive more than US$10,000 while in the United States

Failure to comply can result in civil and criminal penalties, including seizure of the currency or monetary instruments.

Natural disasters can occur at any time.

Plan Ahead for Disasters  – U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Hurricanes usually occur from:

• May to November in the eastern Pacific Ocean, including Hawaii and Guam
• June to November in the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to these regions during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Latest advisories  – U.S. National Hurricane Center
• US National Weather Service  

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

• Stay away from flooded areas
• Follow the advice of local authorities
• Monitor local news to stay up-to-date on the current situation

Earthquakes

Earthquakes pose a risk in the following states:

• Washington State

If you’re in an area prone to earthquakes, familiarize yourself with emergency procedures.

• Earthquake - Get prepared
• Earthquakes  – Federal Emergency Management

Heat and humidity

Humidity and heat may be most severe during the hot season, from June to September, particularly in the South and South-West of the country.

Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

• Sun and heat safety tips for travellers – Government of Canada
• Heat & Health Tracker – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Bush and forest fires

Bush and forest fires are common and a risk across much of the United States, particularly during the summer months. 

Wildfires can occur year-round but they are most common during periods of low rainfall and high temperatures.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke. In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• always follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel, including any evacuation order
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
• Forest fire information - National Interagency Fire Centre 
• National Wildfire Risk Index – Federal Emergency Management Agency
• Latest wildfire information  - United States National Wildfire Coordinating Group
• Map of wildfires  – Fire weather & Avalanche Center
• California forest fires   – California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection

Tornadoes pose a risk in states east of the Rocky Mountains, particularly in:

• Mississippi

U.S. National Weather Service

There are several active volcanoes in the United States.

In the event of a volcanic eruption, ash could lead to air travel disruptions. The air quality may deteriorate and affect you, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments.

• Monitor local media for the latest updates
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation order
• Be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice
• Volcanic eruptions  - U.S. National Park Service
• Vog  – Government of Hawaii

Tsunamis 

The state of Hawaii is prone to tsunamis. A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor.

If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

Tsunami Evacuation Zones  – Government of Hawaii

Local services

Dial 911 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia.

Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee.

Illinois, Indiana (Jasper, Lake, Laporte, Newton, and Porter counties), Kansas City, Kansas, Missouri, Wisconsin.

Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Utah, Wyoming.

Indiana (excluding Jasper, Lake, LaPorte, Newton and Porter counties), Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio.

Arizona, Nevada, Southern California

Florida, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands

Bermuda, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York State and Pennsylvania.

Northern California, Hawaii.

Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Washington.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to the United States, in Washington, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

You may call the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa toll-free at 1-888-949-9993.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Simon Calder travel advice: When to renew your passport before visiting Europe

Since Brexit , the rules on passport validity for British visitors to the European Union have tightened.

Gone are the days when you could travel to the EU at any point before your travel document expired; the UK is now a “third country”, with rules to match.

Added confusion has come in the form of the UK’s own HM Passport Office, which has continued to give out incorrect information regarding child passport expiry dates .

These are the key questions and answers based on EU rules.

What’s changed?

While the UK was in the European Union, British passports were valid up to and including their expiry date for travel within the EU. But since the end of the Brexit transition phase, British passport holders are treated as “third country nationals” with stipulations about passport issue and expiry dates – together with limits on the length of stay almost everywhere in Europe.

For the avoidance of doubt, these are not “new EU rules” – they were decided while the UK was in the European Union.

What is required for my passport to be valid?

The requirements for the Schengen Area – comprising most EU countries plus Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and a handful of micro-states – are crisply expressed on the Travel page of the European Union’s Your Europe site : “If you are a non-EU national wishing to visit or travel within the EU, you will need a passport:

• valid for at least three months after the date you intend to leave the EU country you are visiting,
• which was issued within the previous 10 years.”

(All children’s passports meet this latter condition – see below.)

For the avoidance of doubt, there is no problem travelling to Europe with a passport issued for over 10 years, so long as it is under 10 years old on the date of departure to the EU and will have three months remaining on the date of return.

Why the line about ‘issued within the previous 10 years’?

For many years, until September 2018, the UK had a generous policy of allowing credit for “unspent” time when renewing a passport, issuing documents valid for up to 10 years and nine months.

So a passport issued on 31 October 2012 could show an expiry date of 31 July 2023.

This was fine around Europe and the world for decade – until Brexit, whereupon a longstanding rule kicked in. For non-members of the EU hoping to enter the Schengen Area, a passport must have been issued in the past 10 years.

With a passport issued on 31 October 2012, regardless of the expiry date, you’re not allowed to enter the EU post-1 November 2022.

Until September 2018 the government appeared unaware of the problem. Once the issue was identified, the practice of giving up to nine months’ grace ended abruptly.

Are the “issued less than 10 years ago” and “valid for three months” rules combined?

No. There is no need to have a passport issued less than nine years, nine months ago. The two conditions are independent of one another.

The Migration and Home Affairs Department of the European Commission in Brussels told me: “Entry should be allowed to those travelling with passports issued within the previous 10 years at the moment of entry into the Schengen area.

“The condition that the passport must have been issued within the previous 10 years does not extend for the duration of the intended stay. It is enough if this condition is fulfilled at the moment of entry.

“To give a practical example, a non-EU traveller arriving on 1 December 2021 for a 20-days stay in the EU with a passport issued on 2 December 2011 and valid until 2 April 2022 will be allowed entry.”

If I get wrongly turned away, what are my rights?

For flights: you can claim denied boarding compensation (either £220 or £350, depending on the length of the flight) and associated costs – for example, booking another flight on a rival airline, or for wasted car rental and hotel expenses that cannot be reclaimed.

I’ve just read a report saying I need six months remaining for Europe?

Some news outlets, regrettably, continue to publish incorrect information. Ignore it.

Does that 10-year-plus rule apply anywhere else in the world?

No as far as I am aware. The concern around the date of issue is relevant only for travel to the European Union – not for the rest of the world.

For destinations outside EU, the only significant consideration is the expiry date. And for destinations such as Australia, the US and Canada, your passport is valid up to and including this date.

So with that passport expiring on 31 July 2023, you could be in New York until that very day (though you would need to get a daytime flight back to avoid your passport running out en route.

Read the Independent ’s guide to how many months you need left on your passport to travel worldwide

What about children?

Passports for under-16s are typically valid for five years (plus any extra credit). A child’s passport issued for five years and nine months is clearly within the 10-year limit, and there is no possibility of breaching that condition.

(During 2021, the Home Office’s defective passport checker stripped all extra credit, which was both wrong and unhelpful. The online checker has now been switched off.)

But beware of the three-months-remaining-on-exit rule, which children are more likely to fall foul of because of the shorter duration of their passports.

What about this 90/180 day rule?

For trips to the Schengen area (most EU nations plus Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and some small countries) British passport holders can stay a maximum of 90 days in any 180. That’s roughly three months in six.

it is tricky to explain, but I shall do my best. Imagine a calendar that stretches back almost six months from today. What happened more than 180 days ago is irrelevant. What counts is the number of days you were either inside (I) or outside (O) the Schengen Area in the past 180 days.

You can easily keep count on a calendar yourself, either printed or digital.

If “I” hits 90, you must leave that day and stay out for almost three months, to accumulate 90 “Os” in a row. Then you can go back in, for a maximum of 90 days.

During the course of a calendar year, it could work like this (assuming no travel to the EU in the previous six months).

• 1 January: enter the EU and stay for 90 days until the last day of March, when you must leave.
• 1 April: remain outside for 90 days, which takes you to 29 June.
• 30 June: enter the EU and stay for 90 days, until 27 September. Then leave.
• 28 September: remain outside the EU until 26 December.

For longer stays, some countries offer visas that allow British citizens to remain for months on end. If you get one of these, then the time spent in that country does not count towards the “90/180” rule – in other words, you can explore other EU countries with a fresh calendar.

What about non-Schengen EU members?

For British visitors to Ireland , there are no limits on passport validity. Indeed, a passport is not legally mandatory for British travellers to the republic, though some airlines insist on it.

Bulgaria, Cyprus and Romania have identical rules to the Schengen Area: passport issued in the past 10 years, and with three months validity remaining on the day of leaving the country. But time spent in any of these nations does not contribute to the “90/180” day total.

Help! My passport is full of stamps and I have no space left. Will I be turned away?

No, even though Eurostar warns British passport holders : “Check that you have a clear page in your passport as it will need to be stamped with your travel date when you’re travelling to and from the EU.”

The EU’s Practical Handbook for Border Guards is explicit about a “document enabling a third-country national to cross the border [that] is no longer suitable for affixing a stamp, as there are no longer available pages”.

It says: “In such a case, the third-country national should be recommended to apply for a new passport, so that stamps can continue to be affixed there in the future.

“However, as an exception – and particularly in the case of regular cross-border commuters – a separate sheet can be used, to which further stamps can be affixed. The sheet must be given to the third-country national.

“In any case, the lack of empty pages in a passport is not, in itself, a valid and sufficient ground to refuse the entry of a person.”

The Independent is the world’s most free-thinking news brand, providing global news, commentary and analysis for the independently-minded. We have grown a huge, global readership of independently minded individuals, who value our trusted voice and commitment to positive change. Our mission, making change happen, has never been as important as it is today.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Visas and immigration
• Travelling to the UK

Entering the UK

Your identity document (for example your passport or identity card) will be checked when you arrive at a UK port or airport to make sure you’re allowed to come into the country. It should be valid for the whole of your stay.

You may also need a visa to come into or travel through the UK , depending on your nationality.

Check which documents you’ll need to come to the UK .

You do not need to take any Coronavirus (COVID-19) tests or fill in a passenger locator form. This applies whether you are fully vaccinated or not.

What you can bring with you

What you can bring with you depends on where you’re travelling from. You must declare to customs:

• anything over your duty-free allowance
• banned or restricted goods in the UK
• goods that you plan to sell
• more than €10,000 (or its equivalent) in cash, if you’re coming from outside the EU

You and your baggage may be checked for anything you must declare.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.